Willard E. Irwin was born on July 9, 1924 to William and Lydia Irwin who lived in Chester, Pennsylvania. The family moved to Kennett Square in or around 1930.

Willard graduated from Kennett High School in 1942.

Willard entered service in the Army on March 8, 1943. He was assigned to Quartermaster Gas Supply Battalion. This unit provided supplies for aviation and ground units. Just prior to landing in Southern France, the unit was divided and transferred to the 66th Infantry Regiment of the 12th Armored Division. 

Private First Class Willard E. Irwin was Killed In Action April 28, 1945 in Germany. He is buried at the Lorraine American Cemetery in St. Avold, France.
Willard was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously.

Credits

Research by Don Wambold, WCMSC