Wayne William Pierce was born on September 11, 1917. He was the son of Lemuel Lafayette Pierce and Susie Elizabeth Cable Pierce. He was married to Wilma P. Reynolds Pierce.

Wayne served four years and six months in the Army during World War II. He was released from active duty as a Captain, having served in Africa and Europe with the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment and 82nd Airborne Division. Wayne was a company commander in the Normandy D-Day invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. His decorations include the Silver Star medal, Netherlands Bronze Lion, Bronze Star Medal, and the Combat Infantry Badge. He stayed in the Army Reserve and retired in 1963 with the rank of Lt. Colonel.

In 1997 he authored a book, "Let's Go!", the story of the men who served in the 325 Glider Infantry Regiment.

He served in numerous Mount Morris community activities, including Vice-President of the Mount Morris Community District School Board, Commander of Post 3639 VFW, President, and Lieutenant Governor of the Mount Morris Kiwanis Club.

An active leader in both the Boy Scout Troop 66 and cub master of Pack 333. Member of Disciples United Methodist Church, Moose Lodge 1551, American Legion 143, VFW Post 8738, C-47 Club, 82nd Airborne Division, and 325 GIR Association.

He was active in church work in Mount Morris, serving as chairman of the board, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and chairman of the trustees, Mount Morris Disciples United Methodist Church. Also served as chairman of the Mount Morris Council of Churches.

LTC Pierce died on April 25, 2010, at the age of 92 in Mount Morris, Illinois. He is now buried in the Fairmount Cemetery, Polo, Ogle County, Illinois.

Source of information: www.findagrave.com