Charles Harrison “Harry” Knecht died, at the age of 27, while serving his country in the Europe Theatre during World War II.
Harry was born on November 17, 1917, one of six children born to the late Daniel W. and Mary (Paul) Knecht. Harry grew up and attended Nescopeck schools. He entered the U.S. Army on February 17, 1941, at the age of 23.
He was assigned to Company C, 1ST Battalion, 109th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division and held the rank of Sergeant 1st class. While serving in Germany during the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, the longest single battle ever fought by the U.S. Army and the longest battle on German soil during World War II, Harry was reported missing in action on November 6, 1944. In 1946, his remains were recovered and due to the inability to identify him, he was placed in an unknown soldier’s grave.
Harry earned several medals during his service, including the Good Conduct, American Defense, and American Campaign Medals, as well as a Bronze Star, Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award, Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII, and European African-Mideastern Campaign Medal with a Bronze Star. For his ultimate sacrifice, Harry was awarded the Purple Heart.
Recently, through DNA testing, Harry was identified and his remains will be transferred home where he will be buried with his parents. He is also preceded in death by his brothers, Paul Knecht and wife Jean; Ray Knecht and wife Edna; Warren F. Knecht and wife Shirley; sisters, Erma Powlus and husband Bobby, and Ruth Sickler and husband Carl.
He is survived by several nieces and nephews; Leslie H. Knecht, Kay L. Knecht, Mary Knecht Brittan, Beth Powlus Keefer, Richard Powlus, and Richard W. Knecht.
A viewing will be held from 9:00 to 10:30 AM on October 14, 2026, at Heller Funeral Home, LLC, 633 E Third St, Nescopeck, immediately followed by a funeral service at 10:30 AM. Interment with full military honors will take place in Elan Memorial Park, Bloomsburg.
Online messages for his family may be sent to condolences@HellerFuneralHomeLLC.com.