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Front View, Audie Murphy Display
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If you are ever in the area of Landsdale, Pennsylvania, you may want to visit the lobby of
the Schwenckfeld Manor, an indepedent living complex for senior citizens. Inside you will
find an outstanding display and memorial honoring Audie Murphy which was created by William Hyndman,
a New Jersey Notary Public. William describes himself as an avid military memorabilia collector,
military historian and lecturer, and as a military decorimentum curator.
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Left Front View
Audie Murphy Display
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William, who specializes in research of Medal of Honor winners,
said in a November 11, 1987 interview with THE SUNDAY STAR LEDGER that as a small boy, he "vowed
to do something to perpetuate the memory of a neighbor killed in one of the last bombing raids
over Japan" and that "the promise is still being kept." " 'I can still vividly recall him,' says
Hyndman of Mark Miller, describing the tailgunner on a B29 bomber as a handsome, friendly man
whose uniform enhanced his good looks."
" 'He went out of his way to come over and talk to me when he was
home on leave. He told me that when he came back, he would bring his parachute with him and we'd
climb a big tree and jump down together. I was just thrilled with the idea.' [Hyndman] was small
enough to take the promise seriously. A few months later, Hyndman ... was crushed when he was
informed by his parents that Miller lost his life as his bomber was shot down over Japan on
Aug. 8, 1945. 'I promised myself that I'd do something to make sure the sacrifice Mark Miller
and others made ... would never be forgotten.' "
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Right Front View
Audie Murphy Display
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Over the years, William has put up displays all over New Jersey and
other states. He often lectures regulary and shows his collection of medals, uniforms,
bayonettes, and other memorabilia to schools, fraternal, and civic organizations. He often
focuses his exhibits on heroic figures to include Audie Murphy. So if you are ever in Landsdale,
stop and see the exhibit. As you do, think not just about Audie, but all the other fallen heroes
that William would have us to remember. And don't forget William either. There is little doubt
that if others were as passionate and committed as William is about remembering fallen heroes,
our country and world would be a much better place for us and our childrens to live in. Thanks
William.
Vistor Information
Schwenckfeld Manor
1290 Allentown Road
Landsdale, Pennsylvania
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My gratitude is extended to
William Hyndman for designing the display above and providing the photos and material at
the request of the Audie Murphy Research Foundation. Email William if you get a chance and
say thanks. He says he is a novice at the computer and with email but I suspect he will be thrilled
to hear from you.
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