World War II Honoree

Stephen J. Molnar

Branch of Service

U.S. Army

Hometown

Harvey, Illinois

Honored By

Stephen J. Molnar, Jr.

Relationship

Son

SERVICE NUMBER 36379173. HE WAS IN THE 33RD DIVISION, 108TH ENGINEER BATTALION, HEADQUARTERS AND SERVICE COMPANY. SERVED FROM OCTOBER 15, 1942 TO DECEMBER 5, 1945. DECORATIONS INCLUDE 1 SERVICE STRIPE, 4 OVERSEAS SERVICE BARS, ASIATIC-PACIFIC THEATER RIBBON WITH 2 BRONZE BATTLE STARS, PHILIPPINE LIBERATION RIBBON WITH 1 BRONZE STAR, GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL, BRONZE STAR, SOLDIER'S MEDAL, MERITORIOUS UNIT AWARD, WWII VICTORY MEDAL AND EXPERT WITH RIFLE. THE OFFICIAL COMPANY REPORT (DATED SEPTEMBER 5, 1945) IN RELATION TO THE SOLDIER'S MEDAL: A HAWAIIAN CIVILIAN JUMPED OFF A SMALL FISHING BOAT THAT WAS BEING SWEPT OUT TO SEA; ABOUT 300 YARDS FROM SHORE. HE DOVE INTO THE OCEAN AND SWAM OUT TO THE MAN AND THEN TOWED HIM TO THE RESCUE BOAT. THE OFFICIAL REPORT (DATED NOVEMBER 2, 1945) IN RELATION TO THE BRONZE STAR: FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE IN CONNECTION WITH MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE ENEMY IN NORTHERN LUZON, PHILIPPINE ISLANDS FROM FEBRUARY 15, 1945 TO JUNE 30, 1945. DECEASED DECEMBER 5, 1999.