Press Releases

U.S. Representative Brad Wenstrup presented Sgt. Frank Buschmeier with the Prisoner of War Medal, the American Campaign Medal, and the Army Good Conduct Medal for his service in World War II.  Sgt. Buschmeier served in the United States Army Air Corps and was a member of the 100^th Bomber Group, 350^th Bomb Squadron.

The ceremony at the Tri-State Warbird Museum offered family, friends and members of the community the chance to learn about Sgt. Buschmeier's harrowing experiences.  One particularly notable mission aboard his plane, the “Miss Irish,” was supposed to be so routine that the crew called it a “milk run.”  The “Miss Irish” was shot down on the mission, but the crew was able to bring down the plane in a controlled landing.  Sgt. Buschmeier flew 34 missions, the last of which led to his capture by the German army.  He was held as a prisoner of war for 10 months.

At the medal presentation ceremonies, Representative Brad Wenstrup said, "Frank Buschmeier carved out his chapter in history and lived through it.  His heroic stories in battle and as a P.O.W. in World War II should make us grateful for everything we have."

Representative Wenstrup was contacted by Sgt. Buschmeier’s son in advance of his father’s 90^th birthday with questions about his father’s war service and possible overdue recognition.  Following Representative Wenstrup’s inquiry to the Army, Sgt. Buschmeier’s file was reviewed and it was determined that he should have been a recipient of the Prisoner of War Medal, the American Campaign Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.  The now 90 year old Sgt. Buschmeier waited 68 years to receive this recognition of his service to his country.