REP. PATTERSON WELCOMES HOME KOREAN WAR VETERAN CORPORAL TISCHLER

(Austin, TX) – This week, the remains of U.S. Army Corporal Andrew Raymond “Sonny” Tischler, a Korean War veteran, are returning home to North Texas more than 75 years after he went missing in action. His homecoming marks the end of a decades-long wait for his family and gives the Pilot Point community an opportunity to honor his service and sacrifice.

Born in Celina, Texas, Tischler was the fifth of nine children and the only son in his family. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on October 26, 1948, and served with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. On May 25, 1951, Tischler went missing during a road march near Taewol, South Korea, when his unit came under enemy fire. His remains were recovered in 1953 but remained unidentified until March 2024, when DNA analysis with assistance from his family and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency confirmed his identity. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart in January 1954.

“Cpl. Tischler made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country, and we must ensure his service is never forgotten,” stated Rep. Patterson. “After more than 75 years of uncertainty, his family can finally bring him home. I am grateful to the Pilot Point community and everyone helping welcome him back with the honor, dignity, and respect he deserves.”

Local veterans and the American Legion are helping welcome Tischler home, including an escort and a community tribute featuring American flags and yellow ribbons along Washington Street. His return will allow his family to lay him to rest near his parents, bringing long-awaited peace to those who never stopped remembering him.

Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Slay Memorial Funeral Center in Aubrey. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 22, at 10 a.m., followed by burial at St. Thomas Cemetery. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550 will host a luncheon following the services.

Rep. Patterson thanks the Tischler family, local veterans, the American Legion, and the Pilot Point community for honoring Cpl. Tischler and ensuring his sacrifice is never forgotten.

State Representative Jared Patterson is serving his fourth term representing House District 106 in Denton County. Patterson is Chairman of the Local & Consent Calendars Committee and serves on the House Committees on Licensing & Administrative Procedures, Transportation, and the Subcommittee on Transportation Funding. He is the Chair of the ONE DFW Legislative Caucus and resides in Frisco with his wife, three children, and family dog.