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1st Lt Henry J. Puhalski attended Oswego High School where he was on the boxing team. He left school to enter the CCC. Upon his return, he was employed as a carpenter for D.L. & W. coal terminal. He was part of the first group to be drafted and entered the service on 29 November 1940.

Lt Puhalski was commissioned on 25 August 1942 and was promoted to first lieutenant two years later. Originally an infantryman, Lt Puhalski volunteered for the paratroopers and went overseas on New Years Day 1944.

He participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

He was awarded the Silver Star Medal posthumously. The citation reads: “Lt. Henry J. Puhalski, parachute infantry, while serving with the Army of the United States, distinguished himself by gallantry in action. On 20 September 1944, his battalion was engaged with the enemy in the vicinity of Dinter, Holland. During the attack, the enemy lines began to waver. Lt. Puhalski, aware of this situation, rushed to the head of his platoon with complete disregard for his personal safety and led his men directly against the enemy. Despite the fact that he was facing 100 men with his single platoon, he brought about a mass surrender of the enemy. Just as the white flag was being displayed, Lt. Puhalski was mortally wounded. As a result of his inspiring leadership and outstanding courage and initiative, a large number of the enemy were taken prisoner. His conduct was in accordance with the highest standards of the military service.”

He was first buried at the Temporary American Military Cemetery of Son, The Netherlands.