Surnames: Nowak, Vach, Hill

----Source: OWEN ENTERPRISE (Owen, Clark Co., Wis.) 05/04/1944

Nowak, Pvt. Edward J. (15 MAR 1924 - 25 APR 1944)

Pvt. Edward J. Nowak, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Nowak, who reside north of Owen, passed away on April 25, at New Hebrides, in the South Pacific, as a result of wounds received in the Bougainville campaign. Memorial services were held for him on Monday, May 1, in the Holway Catholic church, Father J. Seeboth officiating.

Edward Nowak was born in Owen on March 15, 1924, and made his home with his parents on a farm north of Owen. When a young boy he attended Forest Grove school at Holway, and upon reaching manhood was employed at the Clark County Hospital and the Western Condensing Company. Feb. 15, 1943, he was inducted into the armed forces and on July 1 was sent overseas in the service of his country. Letters sent to the home folks stated that he had been in the Guadalcanal campaign and on New Georgia. He was hospitalized from Oct. until Jan. 28, in New Caledonia, and was then sent to Bougainville where he was seriously wounded on March 9. He was removed to New Hebrides where he passed away.

He leaves to mourn his loss his parents; two sisters, Mrs. Stephen (Anna) Vach, Withee, and Mrs. Everett (Bernice) Hill, Ladysmith; two brothers, Anton and Alexander, Owen; and a multitude of relatives and friends.

Edward Nowak was a good boy. He gave his life for his country willingly, that the people who are left behind may be able to enjoy it in freedom.