Donald Eichschlag Obituary

Private First-Class Donald Earl Eichschlag, was assigned to the 7th Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Division. On November 28, 1950, PFC Eichschlag was killed in action during the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, amidst assaults by the Chinese Communist Forces in the area surrounding Yudam-ni.

Donald entered boot camp in June of 1950 and left St. Louis on August 4th. He honorably served his country as a United States Marine. James D. Hammond, Jr, of the 7th Marine, 1st Division, wrote the following in a letter to Donald’s mother after his death, “Donald’s integrity and devotion to duty won for him the respect of all his comrades, particularly in the Korean Campaign, where he paid the supreme sacrifice.” Donald was awarded the Purple Heart.

Donald was born April 9, 1932 to Harold and Helen Eichschlag. He was a beloved brother of John “Jack” Eichschlag, Dolores Schilling, Sally Lorey, and Louise Eichschlag, all who have since reunited with Donald and the Lord.

Donald’s legacy still lives on in the hearts of his nieces and nephews; Mike Lorey, Matt Lorey, the late Bobby Lorey, Terry Klein, Keith Lorey, Christine Mason, Susan Louise Kopczenski, Gary Schilling, Karen Scheuneman, the late Steve Schilling, and Ronald Schilling, as well as many extended relatives.

Donald, born in St. Louis, Missouri, received his diploma from Beaumont before enlisting in the Marines. As a young man, he aspired to become a priest, a reflection of his kind and gentle spirit. Donald was a sweet soul whose warmth touched those around him. His family loved him deeply, and his loss left a lasting impact on their lives. Donald has been greatly missed all these years by those who knew, loved, and remembered him.

After 75 years, it is time to bring Donald home to his final resting place alongside many honorable men and woman at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Donald's name to St. Ferdinand Catholic Church in Florissant, Missouri, in honor of his deep faith and devotion to God.