James Markiewicz

Lieutenant-Colonel James Markiewicz, 94, died peacefully on October 8, surrounded by his family in New Braunfels, Texas. A decorated veteran, he proudly flew B-17’s during World War II. In Korea and Viet Nam he was a Counter Intelligence Regional Commander. He was awarded two Bronze Stars, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and Air Medal with Nine Oak Leaves, among other honors.

James was born on October 9, 1921 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to John and Mary (Bruskiewitz) Markiewicz. He joined the Army Air Corp as an aviation cadet in 1942. He was a member of the B-17 Flying Fortress crew and flew 50 combat missions over North Africa, Sicily, Italy and southern Germany.

In 1947, he graduated from the University Of Wisconsin with a B.A.in Journalism then completed counterintelligence training at Ft. Holabird, Maryland. He was assigned to the 704th CIC Detachment as Operations Officer in Pusan, Korea. Serving in that capacity, he received a personal citation from the President of Korea for directing the capture of a significant foreign spy.

James was a brave and loyal soldier who fought during the cold war as a covert intelligence agent and counterintelligence agent. He received 12 American decorations, and three from foreign governments. He was a pilot, celestial navigator and bombardier.

Entering the civilian sector in 1973 he worked for the Army Health Services Command Public Affairs office as Chief of Public Affairs at Fort Sam Houston.

In his personal life, James was a patient and loving father. He instilled in his children honesty, loyalty, a strong work ethic, and faith. In his free time, he could be found on the golf course or swimming; and remained active in veterans’ organizations. He loved whistling and playing the harmonica and always kept a hand free to give and help others.

He is survived by his wife of 18 years Katherine Ann of New Braunfels, his son Robert Grant of San Antonio, his daughter Carol Power and husband Greg of Nacogdoches, and grandchildren Paul Power and Analise Power. He also leaves nephews Stewart Stuesser, Ray Kaczmarek and wife Sue; nieces Auriel Kachikis, Betty Zych and husband Norm. He is survived by Katherine Ann’s children and grandchildren: Mark, Cally, Allen and Clark Simpson; Blake, Kathleen, Christine and Will Simpson; Scott, Karon, Shawn, Kristi and Gayle Simpson; and Julie, Rod, Rodney, Andy and Christopher Dunn.

A Committal Service with full military honors will be held 11:00 AM Friday, October 21, 2016 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of Zoeller Funeral Home, New Braunfels, TX.