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1st Lt Harold J. Bunstine graduated from Fairview High School and Central State Teachers College. He was employed as a manager at Skelly Oil Company.

He enlisted in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on 26 September 1942. He arrived overseas in December 1944.

Per Randall Wright E/276: "It is very difficult to remember the details and hardships of combat experiences. However, certain events and the bravery of fine comrades will remain with me for the rest of my life.
One example that comes to mind involves a patrol in the Low Vosges, south of Obermuhlthal on 10 January 1945. It was cold, the snow was deep and the terrain was steep and rough.
The battalion objective was to reach and take Hill 415. Enemy machine gun fire from an emplacement was harassing E/276 and holding up progress in accomplishing the objective. Our patrol consisted of men from the 1st Platoon, lead by Lieutenant Harold J. Bunstine. Our orders were to locate the machine gun emplacement and bring mortar fire on it. Lieutenant Bunstine was to act as our spotter.
As Lt Bunstine was observing the target through binoculars, a sniper's bullet took him in the head, killing him instantly."
In part his Silver Star citation reads: "for gallantry in action with the 276th Infantry, 10 January 1945. Without regard for his personal safety, the lieutenant directed damaging mortar fire against gun installations until he was fatally wounded by enemy fire."