Fallen during the Bulge. Let's never forget him ...

Private John J KARINKA (ASN 16127453) - 550th AIB

(June 07, 1924 - January 04, 1945)

John J KARINKA was born on June 07, 1924 in Will County, Illinois. He entered service in September 29, 1942 at Chicago, Illinois and received ASN 16127453. He was finally assigned to 550th Airborne Infantry Battalion later re designated 550th Glider Infantry Battalion. In late December 1944, the 550th was attached to the 194th GIR as a third battalion of this regiment. It fought with this unit during the battle of the Bulge and was disbanded on early March 1945 with the 193rd GIR to consolidate the 194th GIR in its new configuration, according the T/O of December 1944.

Private KARINKA was killed in action during the first day of battle in the Bulge, on January 04, 1945, in the vicinity of Renuamont. He is now permanently buried at the Holy Cross Cemetery of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois. 

NARA file

NARA file