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Personal info

Full name
PUHALLA, Steve J
Date of birth
8 June 1922
Age
22
Place of birth
Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania
Hometown
Fayette County, Pennsylvania

Military service

Service number
33415859
Rank
Sergeant
Function
Squad Leader
Unit
C Company,
119th Infantry Regiment,
30th Infantry Division,
2nd Platoon
Awards
Distinguished Service Cross,
Silver Star,
Bronze Star

Death

Status
Killed in Action
Date of death
28 February 1945
Place of death
Köningshoven, Germany

Grave

Cemetery
American War Cemetery Margraten
Plot Row Grave
G 7 11

Immediate family

Members
Martin Puhalla (father)
Mary Puhalla (mother)
John R. Puhalla (brother)
Joseph S. Puhalla (brother)
Anna Puhalla (sister)
Margaret Puhalla (sister)

More information

Sgt Steve J. Puhalla enlisted in January 1943 and was sent overseas in May 1944

He was reported wounded in action on 21 December 1944. After recovering, he rejoined his unit in January 1945.

He was killed by a sniper.

He was awarded a Bronze Star for meritorious service as squad leader from14 June 1944 to 24 November 1944.

The citation for his Distinguished Service Cross stated: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 27 February 1945. SgtPuhalla's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Source of information: FOHF, www.wwiimemorial.com, www.fold3.com, www.oldhickory30th.com

Photo source: Peter Schouteten, www.fold3.com