John A. Shaeffer was born in Park Place, but raised in Mahanoy City. He graduated with the MCHS class of 1926.

He served in an anti tank company with the lst Army, 2nd Div., 23rd Infantry. He was a toxic gas handler and decontaminated chemical shells. He saw action on the Normandy Beaches on D-Day, June 6, 1944; Brest, France; St. Lo France; The Ardennes Forest and the battle for the Rhine. He received a Presidental Citation for his courage and valor in the Battle for Brest, France.

Thanks, Uncle John, for serving your country and for keeping us free.
Your greatniece,
Shirley