Did you know that the 60th anniversary of William H. Pitsenbarger’s ultimate sacrifice for his country is on April 11, 2026?
The City of Piqua’s largest park is named in the Piqua native’s memory and is the host site for a special event happening this weekend to commemorate his service.
Pitsenbarger was a United States Air Force Pararescueman who flew on almost 300 rescue missions during the Vietnam War to aid downed soldiers and pilots. He helped save more than 60 men in battle before his death at the age of 21. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
The 67-acre park was named for the war hero in 1993, and a monument honoring him stands at the entrance to the complex off McKinley Avenue, thanks to a Friends of the Piqua Parks project.
This weekend’s memorial events include a free showing of “The Last Full Measure,” a feature film that is based on Pitsenbarger’s story (rated R, 2019), on Friday evening and memorial services at Pitsenbarger Sports Complex and Miami Memorial Cemetery.
Find the event details by visiting: afadaytonwright.org/Pitsenbarger.