SSGT Ivan Albert Bauer

Today we honor and remember SSGT Ivan Albert Bauer of the 101st Airborne Division who was killed in The Battle of the Bulge.

Batesville High School class of 1932 (Source: FindaGrave)

On December 24, 1944, the Screaming Eagles all around the Bastogne perimeter of the 101st Airborne Division felt fearful. It seemed to them that the end was at hand. That night many of them shook hands with their comrades. They said to one another that it would probably be their last night together.¹

That day, SSGT Ivan Albert Bauer of Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment died of wounds sustained on December 21st. Born in Batesville, Indiana, on July 20, 1914, he died at the age of 30. SSGT Bauer left behind his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Otto Bauer, one brother, Alvin, and one sister, Helen.

SSGT Ivan Bauer was first buried at the Temporary American Military Cemetery Grand Failly, France, at Plot I, Row 12, Grave 288. He rests eternally at the Saint Johns Cemetery, Huntersville, Franklin County, Indiana. He was posthumously awarded a Silver Star Medal and a Purple Heart Medal.

Another Screaming Eagle had soared to the ultimate height. 🦅

Lest we forget! 🇺🇸

1. From Rendezvous with Destiny by Rapport and Norwood.