Sergeant John Thomas Boxler, A Soldier's Story
Sergeant John Thomas Boxler, A Soldier's Story
John Thomas Boxler was born on May 11, 1946, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. He attended Richland High School, where he ran cross country and track, demonstrating the discipline and endurance that would later define both his military and civilian service. Following his graduation in 1964, Boxler enlisted in the United States Army.
He trained as a mechanic and deployed twice to Vietnam with the 458th Engineer Battalion. In this role, Sergeant Boxler supported critical engineering and logistical operations, maintaining vehicles and equipment under demanding combat conditions. After completing his Vietnam deployments, he continued his military service with the Army National Guard.
Returning home, Sergeant Boxler carried his skills into civilian life. He worked as a vehicle mechanic for the United States Postal Service, ensuring the reliability of essential service fleets, and volunteered with the Westmont Fire Department, continuing a lifelong pattern of public service within his community.
In 1990, Sergeant John T. Boxler was deployed to Saudi Arabia with the 14th Quartermaster Detachment in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the Gulf War. His deployment placed him in a forward area during a period marked by sustained missile attacks and heightened danger.
On February 25, 1991, Sergeant Boxler was killed when a SCUD missile struck his barracks in Saudi Arabia. He was 44 years old.
Sergeant John Thomas Boxler is buried at Richland Cemetery in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. In recognition of his service and sacrifice, the United States Postal Service has erected a monument in his honor at 11 Franklin Street in Johnstown, a lasting tribute to a soldier whose dedication extended from combat zones abroad to quiet service at home.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
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