Press release/Provided photo
Highway sign designates section of State Route 19 in Village of Gainesville as the “T Sgt. Walter Shearing Memorial Highway”
GAINESVILLE, NY – The courage and sacrifice of a Wyoming County native who gave his life during World War II were formally recognized Saturday with the dedication of the “T Sgt. Walter Shearing Memorial Highway.”
The ceremony, held alongside the newly installed highway sign on State Route 19 in the Village of Gainesville, commemorated Technical Sergeant Walter Shearing, a decorated soldier who was killed in action while serving in Germany in 1945. Senator George Borrello, who sponsored the Senate legislation creating the designation, and Assemblyman David DiPietro, who carried the bill in the Assembly, presided over the event.
Family members, local officials, veterans, and members of the community joined together to honor the legacy of a man who exemplified patriotism and selfless service.
Walter Shearing was born in the Town of Gainesville to parents who were farmers. Although eligible to avoid the draft because he qualified for a farm deferment, when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor Walter decided he needed to defend his nation and enlisted in the Army. Although he was asked to go to Officer Candidate School, he declined and became a drill instructor.
Assigned to Company M of the 324th Infantry Regiment, 44th Division, Shearing rose quickly to the rank of Technical Sergeant. He saw combat in several key campaigns, including the Battle of the Bulge — the largest and bloodiest battle fought by U.S. forces in WWII.
Technical Sergeant Shearing was killed in action on April 17, 1945, during an assault on a heavily defended German town. As described in a letter from his commanding officer, Shearing was attempting to direct the fire of his machine gun crew when he was fatally struck by a sniper.
His actions that day were consistent with the courage and leadership he had demonstrated throughout his service. For that bravery, he was posthumously awarded a Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster as well as a Purple Heart. His Bronze Star citation recognized his actions from months before, in December 1944, when under heavy enemy fire, he moved into the open to draw fire away from his squad members, enabling their successful advance. The citation stated his actions were “worthy of high praise.”
“Sergeant Walter Shearing did not have to go fight in World War II and put his life at risk. However, he chose to serve his country in its time of need,” said Senator Borrello. “He fought bravely under General Patton in the 44th Division, earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, and made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight against fascism in Europe. Dedicating this stretch of Route 19 in his hometown honors not only his courage and service but also ensures that future generations remember the price of freedom and the selflessness of those who defend it.”
“I am proud to help honor Walter Shearing, a local hero who enlisted in the Army after Pearl Harbor despite being eligible for a farm deferment,” said Assemblyman DiPietro. “Walter served in Patton’s 7th Army, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and gave his life in the closing days of the war. Though our debt to him can never be fully repaid, this highway will stand as a permanent reminder of his courage and commitment.”
Senator Borrello noted that the site will serve to remind future generations that freedom is never free, and that behind every liberty we enjoy stands the sacrifice of brave Americans like Sergeant Shearing.
“On this day, and with Memorial Day approaching, the dedication of the T Sgt. Walter Shearing Memorial Highway stands as a lasting tribute to a true American hero – a son of Wyoming County whose courage and sacrifice embody the highest ideals of service,” said Senator Borrello. “Sergeant Shearing’s legacy will live on and continue to inspire future generations to remember the high cost of the freedoms we enjoy.”