PFC Elmer Ernest Shaffer

January 17, 1945, was the last combat day for the WWII Screaming Eagles of the 101st Airborne Division at Bastogne.

Almost a month earlier, the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment had opened the fight and defense of Bastogne at Neffe. On January 17th, it was the attack of the 502nd PIR on Bourcy that ended the participation of the 101st Airborne at the Battle of the Bulge.

At 0830, it was the 1st Battalion that moved to the northwest of the town, clearing the high ground and the woods in that sector, while the 2nd and 3rd Battalions attacked the village from the front, half an hour later. At 1030 hours, against light enemy opposition, the town of Bourcy was taken by the 502nd.

One of the Deuce men who was killed in action during the assault was PFC Elmer Ernest Shaffer of Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion.

Another Screaming Eagle had soared to the ultimate height. 🦅

Born in Paint Township, Somerset County, Pennsylvania, on April 12, 1924, PFC Shaffer died at the age of 20 on January 17, 1945. He left behind his father, Mr. Elmer E. Shaffer Sr., seven brothers, and three sisters. His mother, Ida Mae (Smith) Shaffer, had passed away on September 6, 1942.

PFC Elmer Shaffer was first buried in the Temporary American Military Cemetery, Grand Failly, France, at Section I, Row 8, Grave 200. He now rests eternally at Berkey Cemetery, Windber, Somerset County, Pennsylvania. PFC Shaffer was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart Medal.

Lest we forget! 🇺🇸

Source: Rendezvous with Destiny by Rapport and Norwood (pgs. 662-663)