William and Emma Lebrecht emigrated from Germany to the Upper West Side of New York City, New York during the early escalation of hostilities toward Jewish citizens. The couple had two sons Ferdinand Ludwig Lebrecht and his younger brother Alfred. When the United States entered World War II both brothers eagerly enlisted with the US Army to defend their new country.
Private First Class Ferdinand Lebrecht served with the 86th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division. On February 20, 1945 in the Apennine Mountains of Italy Ferdinand was fatally wounded during an attack on German lines, in icy conditions at 2000 feet, Lebrecht rescued five wounded comrades, before he was hit by a sniper bullet. For his actions he was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. Ferdinand was also the recipient of the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart Medal. Ferdi was 22 years old.
His younger brother Private First Class Alfred William Lebrecht served with the 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. Less than one month later Alfred was fatally wounded during combat in Germany on March 15, 1945. He was 20 years old at the time of his passing.
The Lebrecht Brothers lie in rest, side by side, at Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial in the commune Saint-Avold in France.
Ferdi and Alfred were the only children of William and Emma Lebrecht. Lest We Forget.
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