Pvt. Chester D. Ptaszek "Chester Bird"

Chester Bird Post 523 American Legion honors and is dedicated to the memory of Chester D. Ptaszek (pronounced pea-ot-zig), Private, United States Army; who lost his life in the Second World War. Chester Bird was a nickname, as the name “Ptaszek” is a Polish derivation of “bird.” Pvt. Ptaszek was 35 when he was first reported Missing in Action (MIA) and then confirmed to have died in France, on August 1, 1944.

Chester Bird served in the 29th Infantry, 115 Regiment who were part of the first wave of soldiers to storm Normandy at Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944; more than 32,450 soldiers landed at Omaha Beach that day, where over 2,000 men were killed or wounded on the first day alone. The 115 Regiment then proceeded to the Northern France Campaign. Its first objective was an important Submarine Base near the town of Brest, France; and fierce fighting was reported at “The Battle of Brest” from July 27-29, 1944. Chester Bird was reported to have died before August 1st, so it was likely that he was killed there. While Chester Bird did not live to complete the 115th campaign, his regiment continued on into Belgium and later culminated their service in the capture of Germany.

American Legion Post 523 was chartered in February 1946, when it was dedicated to Chester “Bird” Ptaszek.

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY WE ASSOCIATE OURSELVES TOGETHER
FOR THE FOLLOWING PURPOSES:
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• To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America;
• To maintain law and order;
• To foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism;
• To preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in the Great Wars;
• To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation;
• To combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses;
• To make right the master of might;

• To promote peace and goodwill on earth;

• To safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy;
• ​​To consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.

We are committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.