Mission: On March 8th, 2014 we lost an iconic Philadelphia war hero, William "Wild Bill" Guarnere. Wild Bill, a South Philadelphia native, was a member off Easy Company, in the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army during WWII, where he was wounded in action and lost a leg. Guarnere became famous after being portrayed by actor Frank John Hughes in the 2001 HBO miniseries Band of Brothers, produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks. Wild Bill also co-wrote a book entitled "Brothers in Battle ~ Best of Friends".
Wild Bill continued serving his Country by donating to various charities, children and individuals in need throughout his life. Through funds raising efforts, the Guarnere Family and Friends would love to keep the tradition going in Wild Bill's name so that his name and his generosity will live on forever .
Results: We have raised the $65,000 for the cost of the materials needed for his statue. After the stature is erected on Saturday, September 19th at 12 noon at The Delaware County Veterans Memorial, the monies not used for the Statue event will start being directed to Veterans causes decided by the board members of the Wild Bill Guarnere Memorial Fund.
Programs: Raise money for veterans causes and their families facing hardships.
This was the most devoted group of people I have had the pleasure of meeting. They are a fantastic team dedicated to Veteran's and Children's charities. Incredibly hard working group of family and friends ensuring the Memory of such an Honorable man continues. My life has been forever changed.
Many great events. They donated his 8ft bronze statue to the Delaware County Veterans Memorial in Newtown Square. They are contributing Wild Bill's legacy by donating to our Veterans.
Working with the Wild Bill Guarnere Memorial Fund was a life changer for me. From the day I showed up to offer a hand, I was embraced like family and felt an immediate connection to a man I was never lucky enough to meet. The Fund was established to preserve the legacy and values seen every day in Wild Bill and I must say the group truly comes through on their promise. In less than two years, the Fund has financed and completed the Wild Bill Guarnere Bronze Statue located at the Delaware County Veteran's Memorial. The statue and Education program ensure future generations will never forget the sacrifice of our veterans. This past year, the group learned that the Philadelphia Veterans Home was in need of funds and decided the profits from their annual golf outing could help. What makes this group so special is that all funds raised are going back to help our veterans and their families. There are no smoke and mirror tricks, no big CEO and no questions about where money is going. They may be small, but the impact is enormous!
I joined the Wild Bill Guarnere Memorial Fund to help pay tribute to an American Hero and his desire to continue to help veterans and children throughout his life. Working with the Fund has allowed me to be part of the history that is near and dear to my heart while also honoring the man who embodies an American Hero
