Identified personal items

Wood Box and Trench Art Ring ID'd to Rudolph Kopecky

These unique items were found at the estate of Rudolph Kopecky's son Jon A. Kopecky (1955-2021). Rudolph 'Rudy' Kopecky served during WW2 as the 1st Sgt of A Company, 331st Infantry Regiment. The group consists of a handmade and painted wooden box, a handmade ring bearing his initials RK and a nametag, likely postwar issued. The wooden box and ring were manufactured at the Pocking Displaced Persons (DP) Camp. It was a regular practice that artisans at these camps would make souvenirs the GI's could buy and take home with them. The Pocking DP Camp was located in the small town of Pocking, Germany only 30 kms from Passau and was one of the Major camps for Jewish displaced persons. This is the area where the 83rd and 331st Regiment were assigned on Occupation Duty. Company A spend its time in Pfarrkirchen.

click on the images to enlarge

1st Sgt. Rudolph J. Kopecky

First Sergeant Rudolph J. Kopecky

Rudolph Joseph Kopecky was born on November 4, 1922, in Racine, Wisconsin, to Emily Habada and Paul Kopecky.

Rudolph J. Kopecky served (#36801064) with QM Company 83rd and was assigned and joined from 86th Reinforcement Battalion as of April 30, 1945 to Company A of the 331st Infantry Regiment. He stayed with them for the remainder of the war. For his service he was awarded, among other decorations, the Combat Infantryman's Badge.

Rudolph J. 'Rudy' Kopecky was united in marriage to Dorothy Alford on August 23, 1947. He ramained with the US Army Reserve for 20 years, retiring as First Sergeant of Company A, 339th Infantry Regiment, 84th Infantry Division. Rudy was employed by the City of Racine Fire Department, retiring after 31 years of service to his community as Captain of Engine Company. He was also employed by the Racine Journal Times as Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. Rudy was for many years on the Board of Directors for the Racine Raiders semi-professional football team. He was a member of the 84th Infantry Division Alumni Association.
Rudy Kopecky went to his eternal life on September 29, 1996, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer. He was survived by his beloved wife for 49 years Dorothy Kopecky (1918-2005).