2017 PHR Annual Report

Earned Through Valor, Lost by Circumstance, Reunited with Dignity



In This Report

PG. 3 Letter From Our Founder
PG. 5 Letter From Our Executive Director
PG. 7 Mission
PG. 8 Honor Roll
PG. 10 Valor Guard
PG. 11 Eight On Seven
PG. 17 Medal Returns
PG. 25 Events & Accolades
PG. 30 Sharing Our Story
PG. 32 Sponsors
PG. 33 Financials

LETTER FROM OUR FOUNDER

The Foundation continues to
grow in leaps and bounds, both
organizationally and personally.
Through the long hours of
research, travel, and all the
adversity, we were able to find
strength in the virtue of returning
Valor, which led to the most
successful year since our creation. 

Not only did we meet our goal of returning 100 lost, stolen, or misplaced artifacts, we successfully expanded
our Valor Guard and Valor Research programs.  As a team, we were able to increase our returns by 44%, our
researchers produced hundreds of volunteer research hours, and our Valor Guard teams traveled some 30,000
miles to return Valor in 34 states.  These returns encompassed all eras of service to include our first return to a
mother of a fallen patriot of Desert Storm.

I am particularly proud of the event we held in New York City dubbed Eight on Seven.  Individual returns can be
a life changing occurrence, but we wanted to see what would happen if we brought eight likeminded families
together to experience that moment as a group.  We were not surprised to find that these families not only
benefited from the enjoyable adventure to the Big Apple, but they bonded over the grievance of a loved one’s
loss, their own personal struggles to find closure, and the emotional impact of being reunited with their Valor.
Through that process, they left with not only new friends that will last a lifetime, but they left as a family, which
we believe to be one of God’s greatest gifts. It was an amazing journey for everyone involved and we look forward
to repeating this event next year.

3.

I’m also pleased that we welcomed two new members of the Valor Guard who are female Veterans.  As the son of a
female Veteran, I’ve witnessed the struggles women have faced over the years and my mother’s ability to overcome
unnecessary obstacles has been an example I’ve always tried to follow.  Female integration in our society and
military is a necessary step to making us a better and stronger nation and I’m proud that Purple Hearts Reunited is
at the forefront of reaching this goal.

Our Executive Director Sarah had another strong year and secured some amazing partnerships from across the
country.  With these new friends, we will be able to pool our resources and begin to answer the question we ask
ourselves every day, “What more can we do for our Veteran’s and their families?”  We find this cohort of Americans
to be our country’s national treasures and without them, we wouldn’t have the freedoms we often so carelessly enjoy. 
This foundation is our small way of paying them the honor they deserve and preserving their invaluable legacies.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank the hundreds of individual donors who contributed to our mission last year.  These donors,
both from small and large towns across our country, often don’t have the money to give, but they choose to do so
anyway because they passionately believe in our mission.  These donors are the life blood of this foundation and we
share their love with every family we honor.

I’ll close by sending love to my family.  As Dr. Brothers once said, “When you look at your life the greatest happiness’s
are family happiness’s”.  Through this foundation, I’ve always attempted to create a positive example my children could
grow from, but to date, they have taught me so much more.  Being a husband and father has been, without a doubt,
my greatest source of achievement, pride, and inspiration.  They have taught me unconditional love, supported the
importance of returning Valor, and simply taught me how to be a better person.  I look forward to sharing those lessons
with you and continuing to honor our Veterans in the new year.

God Bless,

Zachariah L. Fike, Founder

4.

LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As I reflect on 2017, I feel extremely
proud of what we have accomplished.
From the intimate ceremonies in homes
across the United States to the historic
walls of Federal Hall, this year has been
enriching on many levels.

As the Executive Director of Purple Hearts Reunited I have the great privilege of meeting the brave Men and Women
who have served our country. In addition, I have the incredible opportunity to work with you, the individuals and
businesses that graciously lend your expertise, time and financial support to make our mission of returning Valor
possible. Your support brought an immeasurable amount of joy, peace, and closure for the families involved with
returns throughout the year. With your generosity, we provided these families with a once in a lifetime experience and
memories that will last forever.

At Purple Hearts Reunited our mission comes first. While the news coverage was extensive this year, and the
support humbling, we continue this mission because of the profound effect it has on families. I often say to my two
children, the best things in life cannot be measured. This rings true at Purple Hearts Reunited. There is no system
that can accurately measure the emotional impact we have on Veterans and their families, only the feeling you get
when reading about their experience in their own words.

“What you did for me could never be repaid with all the money in the World. For years and years the pain I endured
with the loss of my dad haunted me every day. But what you did for me in New York healed that pain and loss I felt for
my dad. The pain has left my heart and I have been set free and I owe it all to the care and the love you had for and
showed us all.”
Chris Calhoun, received his Father’s Purple Heart PFC Calhoun

“This is like a huge Christmas gift, I never ever expected to have something like this. We’re now with something that is
very special to our family; probably more special than anything I can think of”
Art Broaderick, received his Father’s Purple Heart PFC Broaderick

5.

With your continued support we move forward, one return at a time, paying homage to the heroes that make up the
backbone of this great country. As you read this report, we hope you take pride in the returns that your generosity
has made possible. As John F. Kennedy said “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest
appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
With respect, honor and appreciation,
Sarah M. Corry, Executive Director

6.

Purple Hearts Reunited is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization that was founded in 2012.
Our mission is to return lost or stolen military medals
of valor to veterans or their families to honor their
sacrifice to the nation.

Who We Are

Purple Hearts Reunited is led by our headquarters based in Vermont and supported by three specialty divisions —
Valor Research, Valor Rescue, Valor Guard. These teams are led by dedicated volunteers from across the country
and primarily consist of Veterans, wounded Veterans and Military families. As a team, we work together to honor our
nation’s heroes and return Valor across the country.

Vision

Our vision is to return every medal we receive or rescue within the same calendar year by expanding our Valor Guard
and strengthening our financial sustainability. We hope to unite volunteers in every state to support our research and
assist with fundraising campaigns across the country.

7.

Honor Roll

1LT Alexander A. Agase PVT Pete I. Cole 1LT Joseph A. Gavagan

WWII, Chicago, IL WWII, Charleston, WV WWII, NJ

PVT Davis E. Bates SGT Joseph M. Coulombe CPL Eulis G. Grace Sr.

WWI, St. Louis, MO Korea, Bethel, ME Korea, Kingsport, TN

PFC Epifanio M. Bedolla 2LT Robert W. Cowart SGT David D. Gray

WWII, Wilcox, AZ WWII, Lubbock, TX WWII, Muncie, IN

CMSGT Anthony Biancuzzo PFC Joseph J. Cryan CPT Bennett H. Grimm

Korea/Vietnam, Vienna, VA WWI, Reno NV WWII, Houston, TX

PVT Henry D. Bischoff A1C Linwood Duncan CPL Andrew J. Hessig

WWI, Defiance, OH Korea, Norfolk, VA WWI, Winchester, VA

MSG Frederick G. Boelzle PVT Frank L. Dunnell Jr. PVT Bennie Hiam

WWII, Westfield, NJ WWI, Manhattan, NY WWI, Tacoma, WA

PVT Carl I. Bond PVT Walter W. Eades PFC William J. Higgins

WWI, Fremont, OH WWI, Willimantic, CT WWII, Dobbs Ferry, NY

S1C Elmer M. Briggs Jr. SGT Boyd W. Elam PVT Walter H. Hiott

WWII, Bath, ME Korea, Portage, IN WWII, Greenfield, IN

PVT Earl P. Broaderick SGT Stephen J. Evancho MAJ Ronald R. Hobaica

WWII, Burlington, VT Korea, Eagle, CO WWII/Korea/Vietnam
Russellville, AR
SGT William J. Brown SSG David L. Evans
SSG John W. Hobson
Vietnam, Camp Pendleton, CA Iraq
WWII, Memphis, TN
TSGT Howard R. Brown PVT Dan L. Feragen
PFC Alexander S. Hughes
WWII, Denver, CO WWII, Manhattan, NY
WWII, Riverdale, GA
PFC Alfred J. Burton 1LT Brian W. Flavelle
MAJ Maurice Johnson
Korea, Haverhill, MA WWII, Manhattan, NY
Korea, Fort Worth, TX
CPL Richard S. Byars PVT Abraham F. Foreman Jr.
F/O David G. Jolly
Vietnam, Pueblo, CO WWI, Hagerstown, MD
WWII, Lawrence, KS
PFC Andrew T. Calhoun PVT Clayton A. French
CPL Phillip J. Jones
Vietnam, Manhattan, NY WWII, Strafford, NH
Desert Storm, Atlanta, GA
S1C Russell R. Clark PFC Derrell O. Fuller
SSG Jimmy Kendall
WWII, Dallas, TX WWII, Rogers, AR
Vietnam, Fayetteville, AR
CPL Reed F. Clark SGT William F. Gaddy

WWI, Dallas, TX Vietnam, Palmetto, GA

8.

PFC Jack C. Kightlinger LI1 Louis F. Poehler PFC Dean R. Sorrenson

Korea, Manhattan, NY WWII, Northampton, PA Korea, Madison, WI

2LT Robert Q. Kisor CPL Everett J. Proper A1C Paul S. Soutiere

WWII, Napoleon, OH WWI, Skaneateles, NY Vietnam, Burlington, VT

PFC Archibald L. Lake CPL Leo G. Rauf SGT Thedford C. Staples

WWII, Danbury, CT WWI, Kansas City, KS WWII, Oklahoma City, OK

PVT Charles E.G. Lake TEC3 Max Roisen PFC William F. Stewart

WWII, Cairo, NY WWII, New York, NY WWII, Brighton, MI

PFC Harold M. Larsen SGT George W. Roles CPL Richard L. Stout

WWII, Clearwater, FL WWII, Manhattan, NY Korea, Fremont, OH

SGT Raymond E. Latta PVT Paul S. Romberger CPL Chester Streeter

WWII, Andrews, NC WWII, Allentown, PA Korea, Winooski, VT

1LT Samuel A. Lutterloh SGT Edward F. Ryan SPC Daniel J. Swift

Korea, Broadway, NC WWI, Willimantic, CT Iraq, Manhattan, NY

COL Leon E. Lyon SGT George Sahlmann CPL Joseph P. Trettel

WWI, Tucson, AZ WWII, Manhattan, NY WWI, Washington, D.C.

SFC Albert Malveaux COL Byron W. Schwartz SP4 William K. Viles

Vietnam, Lake Charles, LA WWI, Montpelier, VT Vietnam, Fort Valley, GA

1LT Alonzo S. Marcil SP4 Kenneth Scoggins SGT Kenneth B. Von Lindern

WWII, Storrs, CT Vietnam, Johnstown, CO WWII, La Verne, CA

PVT Joseph A. Micale CSM Kenneth Scott PFC Harvey Wert

WWII, Rochester, NH Iraq, Nicholasville, KY WWII, Ephrata, PA

PFC Joseph S. Murphey PFC O. V. Sheffield PFC Joseph K. Wheeler

WWII, Ashburn, VA WWII, Cameron, TX Vietnam, West Point, NY

SPC Charles W. O’Brien S1C John W. Shields S1C Robert A. Wilder

Iraq, Kansas City, KS WWII, The Villages, FL WWII, Tulsa, OK

SFC Lewis T. Owens PFC Justine C. Short PFC Audrey G. Winn Jr.

WWII/Korea, Conneaut, OH WWI, Knoxville, TN WWII, Little Rock, AR

PVT Claude Parris PFC Vincent S. Simone PFC Dean E. Winner

WWII, Ringgold, GA Vietnam, Newburgh, NY WWII, Moline, IL

SGT James E. Parrott 2LT Robert A. Smith SSG Albert M. Yanetti

WWII, Kimbolton, OH WWII, Denver, CO WWII, Indiantown Gap, PA

PFC Miguel A. Perez-Loubriel SSG Bernard E. Snow PVT Orlando Zamora

WWII, Santa Rose, California WWII, Manhattan, NY WWII, Brandon, FL

MAJ Albert W. Perrington PVT Edward J. Solomon

WWII, Mooresburg, TN WWII, Allentown, PA

9.

2017 Valor Guard

This group, affectionately dubbed the Valor Guard, is DIRECTOR Robert Monette
comprised of former Men and Women, both current and Mitch Bell Mike Sturgill
active duty military veterans. Their years of dedicated Zac Fike Ema Moreau
service span across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Kevin Coady Alejandra Caballero
Marine Corps. Dedicated to preserving our nation’s Mike Brennan
freedom, they also understand the importance of Mitch Bell
honoring our heroes and finding homes of honor for John Bircher
their lost or stolen medals. This program is an integral Don Fike
part of our mission and has transformational affects on Robert Hunt
the Veterans involved. Rich Gerbeth

Statistics

100 Returns
34 States Visited,
30,000 Miles Traveled

Totals by Era: 17 WWI, 53 WWII, 12 Korea,
13 Vietnam, 1 Desert Storm, 4 OIF/OEF

10.

11.

In recognition of National Purple Heart Day (August 7)
we held an unprecedented event within the historic walls
of Federal Hall. Eight previously lost Purple Heart Medals
were reunited with the family members of seven deceased
Veterans and one living Iraq War Veteran, Dan Swift.

Themed as “Eight on the Seventh” (8-7-17), this day honored families who represented our nation’s heroes from World
War I, World War II, the Korean and Vietnam War, and the War on Terror. The location of the ceremony was historically
significant as it marks the site where the founding father of the Purple Heart, President George Washington, was sworn
in as the first President of the United States on April 30, 1789. A fundraising benefit was held at Fraunces Tavern ®
following the ceremony where guests were serenaded by the talented Gyda Arber Sabaugh and Elysia Segal. Guests
enjoyed a decadent cake donated by the Cake Boss, which looked almost too perfect to eat.

The days leading up to the event were filled with excitement for our families. From interviews on Fox and Friends to
Story Corp, the media coverage was extensive, and the families handled it with grace. The families were honored with
applause at the New York Stock Exchange thanks to our friends at the United War Veterans Council and their Execu-
tive Director, Mark Otto. Our friends at the FDNY guided the families to the sites of New York City, including one of our
favorite firehouses, Engine 54/Ladder4/Battalion 9. “Eight on Seven” was certainly a once in a lifetime experience for
the families involved. They share a unique bond and unforgettable memories that will last forever.

The event would not have been possible without the support of the United War Veterans Council, the Daughters of the
American Revolution based in New York City, the Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York and the New York
City Fire Department.

Special thanks to our sponsors – Bank of America, BNY Mellon, First Data, Unite US, Donna and Remo Pizzagalli, Josh-
ua G. Parker, 14 th Star Brewery, Heroes Vodka, Sword & Plough, Vineyard Vines, Grunt Style, Select Design and
Union Street Media.

12.

PURPLE HEART DAY 2017 Pvt. Frank Lyman Dunnell Jr.
VETERANS HONORED

Private Frank Lyman Dunnell Jr.

27th Infantry Division
Buffalo, New York

Wounded in the Somme Offensive on October 2, 1918. His medal was
discovered at the Bank of New York and was returned to his Great-Niece,
Mrs. Carlson of Burlington, VT.

Army Sergeant George W. Roles

35th Infantry Division
Edna, Kansas

Lost his life during intense fighting against the Germans in St. Lo, France.
His medal was discovered in a California home and was returned to his son,
Nick Geasland of San Diego, CA.

Army Private Dan Lyle Feragen

7th Infantry Division
Carlyle, Montana

Survived the infamous Bataan Death March in the Philippines, but died
inside a P.O.W. camp due to mistreatment by his captors. Receiving his medal
for the first time was his nephew and namesake, Lyle Feragen.

13.

Army Air Corps 1st Lieutenant
Brian Woolley Flavelle

376th Bomber Group
Essex County, New Jersey

Served as a B-24 Bomber pilot, assigned to the 376th
Bomber Group. Lt. Flavelle and his crew of the “Wongo
Wongo” lost their lives in “Black Sunday,” the costliest
mission in Air Force history, an August 1, 1943, raid on nine oil
refineries around Ploiești, Romania. His medal was discovered
in Oregon and was returned to his two nephews, Ande & Brian
Flavelle of Caldwell, NJ and Watsonville, CA.

14.

PURPLE HEART DAY 2017
VETERANS HONORED

Marine Corps PFC Jack Carl Kightlinger PFC Jack Carl Kightlinger

1st Marine Division
Franklin, Pennsylvania

PFC Kightlinger was killed in action in fighting near South Korea’s Soyang
River. His medal was found in the 1970s by U.S. Army Veteran Staff Sergeant
Kevin Coady, who had been searching for the family ever since. He returned
Jack’s medal to his great-niece, Mrs. Bernadine Ridgeway of Marysville, CA.

Army PFC Andrew Thomas Calhoun

173rd Airborne Division
Chesapeake, Virginia

Served as an Infantryman with the 173rd Airborne Division. PFC Calhoun was
wounded in action and later worked as a Chesapeake Police Officer in the
SWAT division. He was unfortunately killed on duty when his aircraft crashed
into a lake. His medals were discovered in Arizona and were returned to his
son, Mr. Chris Calhoun of Chesapeake, VA.

Army PFC Daniel Swift

“Fighting 69th” Infantry Regiment
New York City, New York

A New York City firefighter and reservist who served as a Combat Medic
with the “Fighting 69th” Infantry Regiment. Following an explosion
impacting the armored Humvee carrying him and several other soldiers,
Daniel quickly rushed to save the life of one of his comrades also injured
in the incident. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor and the Purple
Heart, and was presented with a full set of his medals at the ceremony.

15.

Army Air Corps Staff Sergeant
Bernard Eldon Snow

305th Bomber Group
Santa Barbara, California

Served as a B-17 Ball Turret Gunner with the 305th Bomber Group.
His B-17, “Mr. Jones,” was shot down by a German fighter near
Hoorn, Holland and he spent the rest of the war in a German
P.O.W. camp, Stalag 17-B. His medal was discovered in a California
jewelry shop and was reunited with his daughter, Mrs. Rebecca
Crofts from Superior, WI.

16.

Every medal has its
own journey.

With your support, each one sacrifices are honored,
memories are shared and families are reunited. We look

forward to sharing the stories as they unfold in 2018.

CPL Leo George Rauf

On the 100th Anniversary of the U.S. entering WWI, we paid
homage to World War One hero, CPL Leo George Rauf. Leo
served in the 301st Tank Battalion, was attached to the British
Expeditionary Forces, and assigned to a Mark V tank. On 29
September 1918, with one eye shot out, Leo fought to the death
to protect his brothers during some of the toughest fighting
on the Hindenburg Line. His last words were “Well, I’m happy I
could get some of those Jerry’s before they got me”. It’s be-
cause of men like Leo that we are a free nation and we owe him
100 years of gratitude. His great nephew Mike along with his
son, Parker, who recently enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Combat
Medic, were presented with some of his medals and personal
heirlooms. 100 years later, Leo’s legacy lives on!

17.

Sgt. Joseph Maurice Coulombe

U.S. Army Sgt. Joseph Maurice Coulombe was killed in action
on March 31, 1951, in South Korea. The medal of valor he was
awarded posthumously was sent to his wife, but Coulombe’s
family never knew he had married at age 17 while in boot
camp. When his widow recently died, her daughter turned to
us to locate the family. On Raymond Coulombe’s 14th birth-
day, he found his brother was killed in action. Each Birthday
after served as a reminder of the brother he lost, the broth-
er he loved, a memory of his lost hero. On Raymond’s 80th
Birthday, his wish was to see his brother for what could be
the last time. With the help of our organization, American
Airlines, and The Airpower Foundation, Raymond made the
trip from Los Angeles to Maine, where the brothers grew up.
He was able to visit his brother’s gravesite and was presented
with his Purple Heart at the American Legion post in Bethal.
“I was 14 years old celebrating my birthday with my grandparents, and that’s when we got the news that
my brother was killed, so it’s like coming around full-circle,” Raymond Coulombe said. “He was my love, my
life. I idolized him dearly. To bring this all back after this many years, right now I feel like I’m in another
world.”-Raymond Coulombe

18.

Corporal Richard Scott Byars

Richard was born 20 September 1947 to Earl Walter
and Eleanor Francis Byars in Rye, Pueblo County,
Colorado. He would later enlist into the United States
Marine Corps and was trained as a Mortarman
(60mm). Assigned to Weapons Platoon, E Company,
2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine
Division, he was deployed to Vietnam on 18 June
1967. During combat operations in South Vietnam,
he was first wounded on 27 November 1967 and then
again on 22 January 1968 near Quang Tri, Vietnam,
which cost him his life. During that operation, CPL
Byars was attempting to knock out a suspected North
Vietnamese artillery spotter. Unfortunately, the enemy
was able to place a round on his position, killing him
and a GSGT Nathan Weathers. His medal was recently
discovered by Marine Corps Veteran Michael Walston
in an antique shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Last May,
during the 35th Anniversary of the Vietnam Wall
and the 30th Anniversary of Rolling Thunder, our
Executive Director, Sarah along with the help of Rob Wilkins and the Rolling Thunder, had the honor of reuniting
CPL Richard Scott Byars’s Purple Heart at Panel 35 East, Row 10 of the wall. CPL Byars has no direct family living,
so his medal was donated to the Pueblo County Historical Society and Museum last December.

Master Sergeant Frederick G. Boelzle

Mildred saw her brother’s Purple Heart for the first
time at the age of 95. Her brother Fredrick was born
in 1914 to August and Julia Kaehnle Boelzle in New
Jersey. Frederick would later enlist in the U.S. Army
on 26 September 1939 and was assigned to Service
Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Divi-
sion. On 17 December 1944, the 16th Infantry Regi-
ment was carrying out rest and rehabilitation oper-

19.

ations were they were altered for immediate movement as a result of a large enemy breakthrough in their area.
They moved from their position near Verviers and Herve and moved toward Robertville, Belgium with the mission
of defending the southwest of their area of operations. It was during this movement that Frederick’s unit encoun-
tered enemy contact and he was Killed in Action on 19 December 1944. At the time of Master Sergeant Frederick
G. Boelzle’ death, he was married to his sweetheart Irene, who later died in 1986. She was presented with his
Heart and a flag that was flown over the Henri-Chapelle American Military Cemetery in Belgium in his honor.

During our visit to the Sun Rise Senior Living Com-
munity in Westfield, New Jersey, we met several of
their residents and learned many were WWII Veter-
ans. This included, PFC Vinnie Scalera who served
with the 167th Engineer Combat Battalion during
the war. Even to this day, he still has the newspaper
that announced the end of the war. These heroes are
passing daily, take time to listen to their stories and
please thank them before they go.

1LT Samuel Ayer Lutterloh

1LT Samuel Ayer Lutterloh was larger than life. A graduate of West Point, Sam went on to serve in the Army with
Company K, 3rd Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War.
Decorated for Valor on a number of occasions, Sam answered the ultimate sacrifice on 02 September 1952 near
Chorwan, Korea. On Veterans Day, our first female Valor Guard member, Captain Ema Moreau returned his medals
to his family so that his legacy can be preserved and remembered. We trust that his family will keep close watch
over Sam in the generations to come and that they will share his story of honor and sacrifice.

20.

Private Earl Broaderick

PVT Earl Paskell Broaderick was born 25 November 1914 in South Carolina to Calvin and Ruby W. Broaderick. On
21 August 1936, he married Loretta Perez and had three children, a daughter Barbara, son Kenneth, and son Ar-
thur. Arthur never had an opportunity to meet his father; he was born 7 months after his father’s death.
Earl enlisted for service in the U.S. Army on 22 February 1944 in Hillsborough County, Florida and was assigned
to Headquarters Company, 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division. He sacrificed his life on 13 September
1944 in France during the Division’s attempt to cross the Moselle River. He is buried in the Martin-Colon Cemetery
in Tampa, Florida. Earl’s son Arthur followed in his father’s footsteps and enlisted in the U.S. Army for service in
Vietnam. Assigned as a helicopter crew chief and machine gunner, Arthur was wounded during his service and
like his father, was awarded the Purple Heart.
Earl’s medal was rescued by Mrs. Marsha Kanterman-Viele in a thrift store in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. She instantly
knew the importance of the medal when she saw it as her father had served in the Navy during WWII in Okina-
wa. Art didn’t have anything to remember his dad by. But now, he finally does. Just two weeks before Christmas,
thanks to the quick turn around of Mrs. Kanterman-Viele, our amazing framers at the Village Frame Shop, Select
Design, and the help of Eagle Scout, Daniel Durgin, we changed that. We were extremely proud of Daniel Durgin
who used his Eagle Scout project to raise the money for the ceremony.

21.

SGT George Sahlmann

On December 11th, 2017 Purple Hearts Reunited and COL (R) Jack H. Jacobs, U.S. Army, Medal of Honor Recipient,
Vietnam presented WWII hero SGT George Sahlmann’s Purple Heart to the Museum of Jewish Heritage with his
niece and her family present. The Core Exhibition will serve as a Home of Honor. We had the honor of Inge Katz,
a 93-year-old Holocaust Survivor and her Granddaughter, Author Elise Garibaldi present for the ceremony. Elise
wrote Inge’s memoir Roses in a Forbidden Garden.

Born 28 September 1910 in Neuenwalde, Hanover, Germany to Hinrich and
Meta Miessner Sahlmann. Not much is known about his early life, but at the age of 27, he was able to escape
Nazi control from the Bremerhaven, Germany area on a luxury cruise ship called the SS Columbus in 1937. When
the ship docked in the New York harbor on 25 June 1937 to drop off passengers at Pier 86, he was discovered
and listed as a “Deserting Seaman”. He would later enlist to serve in the U.S. Army on 26 March 1943 and was
assigned to the 35th Infantry Division. He applied for U.S. Citizenship through the county clerk of Montgomery,
Alabama on 22 July 1943 and was witnessed by two of his Army friends, Staff Sergeant Dale Rankin and Staff
Sergeant Emil Nelson.

He would see action at St. Lo, the Cotentin
Peninsula, and the Mortain-Avranches corridor.
His unit raced across France through Orleans
and Sens, Moselle, captured Nancy, secured
Chambrey, and drove on to the German border,
taking Sarreguemines while crossing the Saar.
After crossing the Blies River, the Division
moved to Metz. His unit also took part in the
fighting to relieve Bastogne. The Division left
England on 05 September 1945 and arrived
in New York City on 10 September. He was
discharged one month later on 11 November.
According to the decorations the organization
rescued, it appears SGT Sahlmann was wounded
on three different occasions. For his actions
and service in WWII, his decorations and awards

22.

consist of the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, and Combat Infantry Badge. Later in life, he was
awarded the New York Conspicuous Service Cross on 07 October 1991 by State Senator Christopher J. Mega.
George passed on 08 January 2006 at the age of 95.

PFC Joseph James Cryan

Private First Class (PFC) Joseph James “Jack” Cryan was born in Anniston, Alabama 10 April 1897 to Joseph and
Elizabeth M. Cray. He enlisted in the Army on 23 April 1917 and was discharged on 5 April 1919. He went to France
with the 8th Provisional Artillery Regiment, Coast Artillery Corps and sailed the 25th of August 1917 on the USS
Pannonia. Jack was awarded the Purple Heart on August 15 th 1939. When Jack was discharged on 5 April 1919, he
came home and went to San Antonio Township, Los Angeles County, California, where he is listed in the 1920 cen-
sus in the home of his aunt and uncle, Charles Farris and wife Kathryn. By 1922, he had married Glenna Rudy and
had three sons, John Calvin, Glenn and Arthur. Jack worked as a molder in an iron foundry, and died on 16 April
1956. His wife Glenna died on 24 September
1967 and is buried with him in the Live Oak Me-
morial Park in Monrovia, California, where their
sons, Arthur and Glen are also buried. Joseph’s
medal was returned to his Great-Grandson, who
is a Marine Veteran and also a Purple Heart re-
cipient, having been wounded in Operation Iraqi
Freedom.
Special thanks to our Friends at the American
Legion and Legion Auxiliary for hosting us at
their 2017 Convention in Reno, especially Aux-
iliary National President Mary Davis and our
friend Carol Harlow. Another wonderful job
by our Valor Guard Director Mitch Bell and his
mother, Mary Bell, a Valor Researcher, both for
finding this family and bringing the medal home.

23.

CMSGT Anthony Biancuzzo

This return was an amazing way to end 2017. CMSGT Anthony Biancuzzo, a Veteran of the Korean and Vietnam
Wars and of over 30 years of service to our country in the United States Air Force. We returned his lost Purple
Heart to his wife and daughter at a special ceremony with the help of our friends at the Military Times. If you
watch the video, listen to the last words spoken by CMSGT Biancuzzo’s family, in short, “Thank you for bringing
him back for a few minutes”. It’s powerful statements like these that keep us moving forward.

https://www.militarytimes.com/video/2018/01/10/purple-heart-returned-to-war-heros-family/

24.

Events & Accolades

Genealogical Award

We are extremely proud of our volunteer Valor Researcher’s from the Chicago
Genealogical Society and the Scottish Genealogy Group of the Illinois St.
Andrews Society, who received Community Service Awards for their tireless
work with Purple Hearts Reunited. We have always said, individually we can
do well, but when you build a village and work together, you can achieve
greatness. We are lucky to have such a great team in our corner helping to find
lost Valor a home. Thank you!

Air Force Sergeants Award

We were honored to receive the Air Force Sergeants Association Americanism
Award at their national convention last July in Reno, Nevada. Valor Guard
member Mike Brennan was on hand to accept the award presented by the 18th
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Kaleth O. Wright. We appreciate the
continued support.

Rotary International Paul Harris
Fellow Award

Our Executive Director Sarah received the Rotary International Paul Harris
Fellow Award for her dedicated work with our foundation.
Many other notable figures have been named as Paul Harris Fellows, including
U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, and U.S.
astronaut James Lovell. Thanks to the Colchester, VT Rotary for recognizing
hard work.

25.

Events

World War One Centennial Commission

We are proud to be a Commemorative Partner of the U.S. World War One
Centennial Commission and will continue our efforts to assist their mission to
plan, develop, and execute programs, projects and activities to commemorate
the Centennial of World War I. We appreciate them sharing our “Eight On
Seven” event and look forward to future returns in honor of our doughboys.

Wreath Laying In Washington D.C. on
Veterans Day

We were honored to participate in this years Veterans Day wreath laying at
Arlington on Veterans Day. It was incredibly special to experience the moment
on the 11th hour, the 11th day and the 11th month.

Vietnam Memorial Day Plaza

Our Executive Director, Sarah Corry, had the honor of meeting Montel
Williams at the Friends of the Vietnam Memorial Plaza lunch yesterday. Special
thanks to Jim Barnes for the invitation to attend this wonderful event.

26.

September 11th

On September 11th, Our Executive Director Sarah had the privilege of being
included in the presentation of an award to our friends at FDNY Engine 54,
Ladder 4, Battalion 9 Time Square 48st and 8th ave Special thanks to Regent,
Sherry Laue and Mary Washington Colonial Chapter, NSDAR, NY, NY for
including Sarah in this special presentation.

HillVets 100

Zac had the honor of meeting former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel at the
HillVets 100 Awards Reception where he spoke about Purple Hearts Reunited.
We were honored to be in a room of great American Veterans inspiring to
affect change on Capitol Hill and creatively finding ways to continue their
service after the military.

MilitaryTimes Solider of the Year Award

We had a great time at the Military Times Service Member of the Year 2017
Award Gala. A special thanks to the Military Times family for their tremendous
support this year. Congrats to the 2017 recipients, you are what make this
country great.

Army Gala

We were honored to participate in the 242nd Army Birthday Gala in NYC. It was
great to see old friends and meet new people leading the charge in the Veteran
Community. Special thanks to Chris Page and Jen Wilson for their support.

27.

Fundraisers

3rd Annual Calcutta

Thanks to our local community here in Vermont, our Purple Hearts Reunited 3rd Annual Calcutta was the most successful yet!
The evening was full of laughs thanks to our talented emcee, Tim Halvorson. Special thanks to our title sponsor Morgan Stanley,
Burlington Country Club for the beautiful venue and delicious food, 14th Star for the best beer in Vermont, and the winners of the
raffle and calcutta, Dan Feeney and Jonathan Farnham who generously donated the money back to Purple Hearts Reunited. Last
but not least, a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated team of volunteers, Kyle Bostwick, The Baldwin Family and Brittany Brown.
We couldn’t have done it without you. With your support, we raised over $27,000 to support our mission of returning lost or stolen
Medals of Valor to veterans or their families in order to honor their sacrifice to our nation.

Lularoe Fundraiser

We would like to thank our friend Courtney Jaggars for her LuLaRoe Fundraiser in honor of Purple Hearts Reunited. With your
support we were able to rescue a medal online for PFC Norman M. Chaplin. Norman was Killed in Action on 09 August 1944 while
serving with the 109th Infantry Regiment of the 28th Infantry Division. We are happy to report his Niece and Nephew have been
found and because of some interesting family dynamics, they didn’t even know he existed. Thanks to your generosity, Norman will
now live on as a family Hero!

28.

Select Sessions

On Thursday, Sept 7th, 2017, our friends at Select hosted the 10th show in their music benefit series “Select Sessions,” with 100%
of proceeds supporting Purple Hearts Reunited. An All-Star band performed the music of Queen to a sold-out crowd of more than
500 friends from the community. Select rallied other supporters, including Switchback Brewing Co., Dark Horse Wine, The Great
Northern, Tomgirl Juice Co., City Market, South End Art Hop, WND & WVS, The Scoop, and Taco Truck All-Stars.

29.

Sharing Our Story

Military Officer Magazine Story Corp

It was an honor to be featured in Military Officer Magazine’s The family of fallen Korean War hero PFC Jack C.
August issue. Kightlinger and a former Army Medic will share their story
of a discovered Purple Heart, a Soldiers mission to return
it, and a family united over lost history.

Fox and Friends

We were honored to tell the stories of PFC Jack Carl
Kightlinger and SGT George Roles on Fox and Friends. Thank
you for sharing two heroes stories.

30.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our
Donors & Sponsors

We would like to thank the individuals or families across the
country who provided financial support to Purple Hearts
Reunited this year. Thank you for choosing us.

In addition, PHR had the support of businesses and organizations that contributed to our mission. Some of
these donors sponsored specific events, and some gave funds without restrictions. From businesses raising
money through ‘Casual Fridays’ to DAR Chapters voting and donating to support the cause, there are a number
of ways to get involved.

If your organization would like to partner with Purple Hearts Reunited to honor veterans military families, email
Sarah Corry, Executive Director at [email protected] to find out more.

31.

PHR Title Sponsors

Matrix Technology Village Frame Shop Select Design

The team at Matrix Technology has truly Framing is a crucial aspect of our mission. Change is important in organizations. We
changed our foundation. From the moment Each frame goes through a detailed layout have grown by leaps and bounds and needed
we met their talented CEO and dedicated process with our framer and specific new branding to reflect our growth. Thanks
team members, we knew immediately they details such as matting color and medal to the generosity of Select Design, we have
could see the tangible and intangible aspects arrangement are carefully chosen to best updated our brand to capture the “Heart” of
of return ceremonies and the value of our historical represent each Veteran and their our mission. We are so fortunate to have a
mission. Their commitment to training and specific service. Together we pour our hearts team of talented designers who understand
hiring Veterans is impressive and rapidly into every step of the unification process the true value of what we do and in turn are
growing. Their support enabled us to reach and pieces of that can be witnessed when able to create the most beautiful brochures,
our 100 returns goal in 2017 and expand our a family sees a frame for the first time. We invitations and reports, like the one you are
team in 2018. We are incredibly grateful for would not be able to do that without our reading. Thank you for capturing the essence
your support and look forward to continuing friends at the Village Frame Shop. Thank you. of what we do.
our partnership with you in the years to come.

14th Star Brewing Co. Garvey Communication MOPHSF State of Vermont Veterans Fund
General Dynamics
American Legion 151 01-04 Green Mountain Rehab Morgan Stanley Sunningdale Charitable Trust
Grunt Style Sword and Plough
American Legion Post 407 Hannaford Helps National Society of the The Adirondack Trust Co
Joack Unlimited Daughters of the American The Keelan Family Foundation
Bank of America Just Giving Revolution Tom Bradley Charity
Karen Ross Unite Us
BNY Mellon Kittell, Branagan, and Sargent New York City Fire Department United War Veterans Council
Ladies Auxiliary Post 6471 Union Street Media
Boy Scouts Troop 888 Malachi Missions Northern Benefits LTD Vermont Culinary Resort
Manchester Country Club INC. Village Frame Shoppe
Capital Custom Sandblast Matrix Technology NYC Chapter NS Daughters of Vineyard Vines
MOPH Chapter 21 the American Revolution
Chester County Marine Corps
Paypal Charitable Giving Fund
Combat Vets Motor Association
vs. Motor Pershing LLC Pershing LLC as Custodian

Essex Asset Management ROF Renaissance Charitable
Foundation
Fidelity
Select Design
First Data Salutes
Sons of the American
Galle Property Management Revolution State of New York


32.

PHR Financials

Donations and Sponsorships - $283,765
Grants - $20,000
Total Revenue - $303,765
Total Expenses - $276,898

(Medal Rescues, Returns and Administrative Costs)

Meet Our Team

Zachariah Fike Sarah Corry

Founder and CEO Executive Director
(315) 523-3609 (802) 734-7715
[email protected] [email protected]

33.

Call To Action

Our charity works with military families and veterans
across the country. The organization was founded by a combat veteran and Purple Heart

recipient. We have returned over 400 medals to date, and the service we provide lasts a lifetime, helping military
families connect with their history, and often, through the gift of a tangible memento of their loved one, giving
them the solace to move on. We rely on donations and sponsorships to do this work. Please reach out to us if you
would like to become part of the mission.

38 North Main Street Suite 112, St. Albans VT 05478
(802) 734-7715 | [email protected]
Visit us on the web at www.purpleheartsreunited.org
To support the cause, visit our website and make a donation or text PHR to 41444

34.