Ortt Honors WWII and Korean War Veteran

Today, Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I,Ref-North Tonawanda) honored Lockport resident, Allen Wanderlich, at the New York State Senate’s 2018 “Veterans’ Hall of Fame” Ceremony. Private 1^st Class Wanderlich courageously served not only the U.S. Army during World War II, but also enlisted into the Air Force, serving during the Korean War.

“It was an honor to join so many veterans at this ceremony and recognize the service that Mr. Wanderlich, among others, gave to our great nation,” said Sen. Ortt. “While it is unfortunate that Mr. Wanderlich was unable to attend the ceremony in Albany, I’ve had the opportunity to visit and speak with him back at his home in Lockport and thanked him for the courage he displayed when our country needed him the most. Without the bravery of gentlemen like Allen Wanderlich, the world would be a much different place than it is today.”

While with the U.S. Army, Private 1^st Class Allen Wanderlich served in the 84^th Infantry “Railsplitters” K Company, fighting in one of the most historic battles of the entire war, the Battle of the Bulge. Private Wanderlich was also involved with the liberation of POW and concentration camps at Hanover, where he continued to fight after being shot through the right leg. Wanderlich strategically used his 60 mm mortar to distract Germans who had opened up fire on his company. While 22 of his fellow comrades perished, Allen’s actions helped save the lives of countless soldiers and earned him the Silver Star.

Before joining the radar specialist division in the U.S Air Force, Airman 1^st Class Wanderlich’s B-29 squadron would fly multiple bombing missions over North Korea. Allen Wanderlich’s service awards include the Combat Infantry Badge, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and numerous other medals.

After his military service, Allen Wanderlich attended the University at Buffalo, obtaining a degree in electrical engineering. He would go on to work at the Wurlitzer plant in North Tonawanda and the Sylvania factory before starting his own business as a television repairman. Allen has been married to his wife Maryann for the past 63 years and is the loving father of four.

Receiving the honor in place of his father was his son, Allen.

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