CPL Frank J. Pilwallis
Today, we honor and remember CPL Frank J. Pilwallis of the 101st Airborne Division.
Corporal (CPL) Frank Joseph “Fritz” Pilwallis of Item Company, 3rd Battalion, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR), 101st Airborne Division, was born in Plains, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, to George and Teofila (Tillie) Pilwallis on August 30, 1914. Frank had three brothers, Joseph, William, and John Pilwallis, and one sister, Anna T. Pilwallis.
Frank was a graduate of Plains High School. He signed up for the draft in his hometown on October 16, 1940. He enlisted in the U.S. Army at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on January 29, 1942. At the time, he was employed at the Prospect Colliery of the Lehigh Valley Coal Company.
CPL Pilwallis had survived the campaigns in Normandy and the Netherlands, but he would meet his fate during the Battle of the Bulge.
On January 3, 1945, German forces launched an attack with tanks and infantry, advancing from Compogne toward Longchamps and Monaville. Item Company was positioned along the defensive line just east of Monaville. During the battle, Corporal Pilwallis was killed in action, suffering a fatal gunshot wound that pierced his right leg.
Another Screaming Eagle had soared to the ultimate height. 🦅
CPL Frank Pilwallis died at the age of 30. He was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart Medal. Frank was first buried at the Temporary American Military Cemetery in Grand Failly, France, at Plot F, Row 1, Grave 23. Since April 1949, he has rested eternally at the American War Cemetery Luxembourg, at Plot F, Row 8, Grave 4.
Happy Birthday in Heaven, Frank.
Lest we forget. 🇺🇸