Pat Buzzeo, DAV Chapter Commander, and Dennis DiIulio, Army Medic and Registered Nurse, both veterans themselves, took Mr. Wiercioch out in the DAV wheelchair-accessible van to visit the yacht club and to hear stories about Mr. Wiercioch’s involvement in the war.
“It feels so good to spend time with people who have served our country in such a beautiful setting,” Buzzeo said, adding, “The DAV wheelchair-accessible van program makes it possible to accompany veterans who might otherwise not be able to get around.”
John Wiercioch being escorted in the DAV wheelchair accessible van. Contributed photo
John Wiercioch being escorted in the DAV wheelchair accessible van. Contributed photo
Mr. Buzzeo also presented to Mr. Wiercioch a Certificate of Special Recognition, signed by Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, in honor of his distinguished service in the US armed forces.
Ms. Wiercioch was drafted into the Polish Army in 1942 at the age of 16 during the war against Germany. He was captured in October of that year and spent over two years as a prisoner of war in Germany assigned to hard labor on the railroad. The U.S. Army liberated the camp in April 1945 and Mr. Wiercioch remained in Germany, helping the U.S. troops.
In 1949 Mr. Wiercioch moved to the United States and a year later served in the Korean War as a demolition man and sharpshooter.
He was in the U.S. Airforce until 1958 and, after being honorably discharged, worked at Electrolux in Stamford until his retirement in 1989.
Certificate of Recognition signed by US Senator Richard Blumenthal.
John Wiercioch receiving his certificate of recognition at the nursing home where he resides.
John Wiercioch at Halloween Yacht Club in Stamford. Contributed photo