Heinz E. Schroeder was born on Frebruary 3, 1921, in Eiserfeld, Germany. Heinz came to the United States with his parents October 17, 1928, coming to Waterford, where he grew manhood. Heinz attended the local grade school and Waterford high school, graduating with the class of '39. While attending high school he took employment at the Waterford Post, working after school hours and during school vacations, learning printer's trade.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a Private First Class in the 143rd Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division. He entered service in Wisconsin. He died on August 29, 1944 during the invasion of southern France. He is now buried at Rhone American Cemetery and Memorial, Draguignan, Departement du Var, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France.