World War II Honoree

Bernard R. Heinsler

Branch of Service

U.S. Army Air Force

Hometown

Rochester, New York

Honored By

Dan & Mary Joan Heinsler

Relationship

Son and Daughter in Law

Staff Sergeant Bernard Heinsler served as an aerial gunner with the 328th Bomb Squadron, of the 93rd Bomb Group, of the 8th Air Force, from 15 Oct 1944 to 24 May 1945. During this time, he provided aerial gunner support to 35 bombing missions over Nazi Germany and Nazi Occupied Europe. For his bravery and service with one of the most highly decorated units of the war, he was awarded the American Theater Ribbon, the European African Middle Eastern Ribbon with 3 Bronze Stars, an Air Medal with 1 Silver Oakleaf Cluster, and 1 Overseas Bar. After completing 35 successful operational bombing missions over enemy territory, with great honor to his country, comrades, and himself, the Air Surgeon deemed him operationally exhausted. In May of 1945 he was able to return back to the United States, and in October 1945, he was honorably discharged. The distinctive accomplishments of Staff Sergeant Bernard Heinsler reflect great credit upon himself, and a most grateful nation.