Missing WWII Purple Heart Returned to Chicago Veteran's Family

The medal belonged to the late Russell J. Reilly, who earned it after losing his leg in combat.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:51pm

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A Chicago soldier's missing Purple Heart has been reunited with his family just in time for St. Patrick's Day, marking a record-breaking achievement for the state's unclaimed property program. The medal belonged to the late Russell J. Reilly, a World War II veteran and Private First Class who earned the distinction after losing his leg in combat.

Why it matters

The return of Reilly's Purple Heart is a poignant moment that highlights the importance of honoring the sacrifices of veterans and ensuring their military honors are rightfully returned to their families. This story also showcases the work of Illinois' unclaimed property program in reuniting lost items with their rightful owners.

The details

The medal was discovered in a bank safe deposit box that was turned over to the Treasurer's Office in 2018 after being deemed abandoned. Reilly, who lived in Chicago's South Austin neighborhood before serving three years in the Army, allegedly lost his leg while saving a friend on the battlefield. After being honorably discharged in 1945, he returned to Illinois, where he worked as a police clerk and courthouse deputy.

  • The medal was discovered in a bank safe deposit box that was turned over to the Treasurer's Office in 2018.
  • Reilly passed away at the age of 60 on St. Patrick's Day in 1980.

The players

Russell J. Reilly

A World War II veteran and Private First Class who earned a Purple Heart after losing his leg in combat.

Michael Frerichs

The Illinois State Treasurer who announced the return of Reilly's Purple Heart.

Patti Barnstable

Reilly's daughter, who shared that her father was a 'typical Irishman' who never missed a chance to celebrate his heritage.

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What they’re saying

“If you recognize a name, please reach out to them or their family. This is an honor that deserves to be in their loving hands, not the cold, dark vault of my office.”

— Michael Frerichs, Illinois State Treasurer

What’s next

The Illinois Treasurer's Office is urging residents to check the Operation Purple Heart website to see if other medals belong to their ancestors.

The takeaway

The return of Reilly's Purple Heart is a heartwarming reminder of the importance of honoring our veterans and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. This story highlights the dedication of Illinois' unclaimed property program in reuniting lost military honors with their rightful owners.