Local World War Two veteran Richard Kerkeslager was recognized for his service Friday afternoon in a ceremony at Cedar Haven.
Kerkeslager served as a Private First Class in the 407th Infantry Regiment of the 102nd Infantry Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroic achievement in German on February 23, 1945. Kerkeslager joined the Army in November 1942.
State Rep. Russ Diamond (R-102) attended the ceremony and posted some photos to Facebook of the event.
According to the citation, which was posted by Diamond:
After successfully crossing a major river barrier under heavy enemy fire, Private First Class Kerkesleger courageously risked his life by laying wire for his battalion operation post in heavy enemy artillery fire. Assigned the mission of transmitting information concerning an enemy mine field to a group of approaching troops, her further risked his life by crossing open terrain, observed and fired upon by the enemy, and successfully disseminated this information. His courage and determined devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
WGAL 8 also attended the event, see their coverage here. Reporter Susan Shapiro said on Facebook of Kerkeslager, “He is a very humble man who didn’t want recognition, but only wanted to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.”