As we remember Henry Muszynski, a World War II veteran whose life was marked by unwavering service, dedication, and resilience, we celebrate his birthday, honoring the incredible journey that began on October 7, 1919, in Wallingford, Connecticut. Henry’s life was one of remarkable experiences, shaped by his commitment to his country, his family, and his community.

Henry’s story began when he enlisted in the Army on February 10, 1942, joining the 88th Airborne Infantry Battalion, the U.S. Army’s first air landing unit. This unit, activated at Fort Benning, Georgia, was crucial in training several airborne divisions for the Allied airborne assault on Berlin. Henry’s regiment later faced significant losses during World War II, leading to their deployment to Europe in January 1945. Despite the challenges, Henry and his comrades displayed extraordinary bravery in the Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns, embodying the spirit of dedication that defined his life.

After returning from the Army on December 23, 1945, Henry met and soon married Jeannette DuHaime, with whom he shared 69 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2015. Together, they raised four children—Patricia Obara, Ruth Petrucelli, Richard Muszynski, and Ray Muszynski—and were blessed with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Henry and Jeannette’s love for each other was matched by their shared love for travel, taking them to nearly every state in the U.S., including multiple trips to Hawaii, and abroad to Italy, Ireland, Poland, and England.

In his professional life, Henry worked at R. Wallace and Sons Silversmith in Wallingford as a drop-hammer operator for 24 years, followed by 12 years as a rewinder for Allegheny Ludlum Corporation. Yet, his dedication to his community extended far beyond his career. As a longstanding member of the Antique Veterans from Meriden, Henry served in the honor guard at veterans’ funerals for over 25 years, ensuring that his fellow veterans received the honors they deserved. His role in the community was a source of great pride for him, reflecting his deep respect for those who served.

As Henry approached his centenarian years, his remarkable life and contributions were recognized by his community. Meriden, Connecticut, honored him by declaring October 7 as “Henry Muszynski Day,” a tribute that celebrated his 101st and 102nd birthdays. Henry often shared his simple yet profound philosophy on life: “Henry, take a deep breath, take a deep breath, and you’re fine. So, what more would I want?”

Henry’s 103rd birthday in 2022 was celebrated with a special event at the Meriden Senior Center, where he was surrounded by family and friends. The celebration included music, a Marilyn Monroe look-alike, and a proclamation from Mayor Kevin Scarpatti, reflecting the deep respect and affection the community held for Henry. Even as he turned 104 in 2023, Henry’s vitality and joy for life remained evident. He expressed his happiness surrounded by his loved ones, saying, “Oh, I am so happy with everybody, my mayor, my best friend, my children, they are all here.” His enduring spirit was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Henry’s children, Pat Obara and Ray Muszynski, fondly remembered their father’s hardworking nature and his deep care for his fellow service members. Pat shared, “He served as an honor guard for veterans’ funerals, and that was very important to him; it was his honor to honor these veterans that passed away.” Ray added, “Considering he is 104, he is doing pretty darn good.”

Today, as we celebrate Henry Muszynski’s birthday, we honor a life well-lived, a life that touched many through service, dedication, and love. His legacy continues to inspire, and his memory is cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.