Harvey’s division debarked in Le Harve, France, and was assigned to General Patton’s Third Army. The 65th division was transported to the Belgium/ German border and entered combat in Saarlautern area in southwest Germany. They relieved the 26th division at the bridgehead on the Saar River in March. After defeating the enemy, they crossed the river and fought their way to the Rhine River, crossing it on March 29-30th. The 65th division continued advancing under heavy combat, notably the Battle at Struth on April 7th, Battle for Neumarkt, April 20-22, and crossing the Danube to take Regensburg area, April 25-26.
Private First Class Harvey M. Shaner, Jr. was killed in action on April 26, 1945 in Kapfelberg, Germany. His parents first received a telegram that Harvey was missing in action, soon followed by a telegram in May that their son was killed in action. Harvey was buried in a local military cemetery, and a memorial service was held in his hometown a year after his death.
In 1948, at the request of his family, Harvey’s remains were returned for burial in his home country. A private family service was held on December 12, 1948 at The Pottstown West End cemetery.
Harvey’s brother, Warren also served during the war in the Navy.
Credits
Research by Don Wambold, WCMSC