Palatine post office could be named after Ghost Army vet

The Palatine post office could be renamed after Bernie Bluestein, a 102-year-old veteran of the “Ghost Army” in World War II.

U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced legislation to rename the post office at 1300 E. Northwest Highway in Palatine the “Bernie Bluestein Post Office Building,”

Bluestein, who recently moved from Hoffman Estates to Wheeling, was awarded the nation’s highest civilian award, the Congressional Gold Medal, last year for his service, along with two other Ghost Army veterans, Seymour Nussenbaum and John Christman, both of New Jersey.

During World War II, the Ghost Army was dubbed a “traveling road show of deception.” The unit’s mission was to fool the enemy about the strength and location of Allied troops.

Their weapons were unconventional — inflatable tanks, sound effects and radio trickery. Members even mingled with local populations to help spread misinformation.

The Ghost Army included men previously in the creative arts, like Bluestein, who was attending the Cleveland Institute of Art with the goal of becoming an industrial designer. In the Ghost Army, he was part of a team that created fake patches, signs and vehicle stencils.

His unit worked perilously close to the front in France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany.

Bluestein served as a private first class in the 603rd Engineer Camouflage Battalion (23rd Headquarters Special Troops).

After the war, Bluestein built a distinguished career as an industrial designer for leading firms.

Later in life, he spent decades taking art classes at Harper College. The sculpture studio at Harper College is named after him.

Krishnamoorthi said the Ghost Army’s creativity, courage and ingenious deception tactics helped defeat the Nazis, save thousands of lives and restore freedom and democracy to Europe.

“For decades, Bernie’s valor remained classified, but today his extraordinary service finally receives the recognition it deserves, including right here in our community at Harper College,” the congressman said. “Soon, the Palatine post office will proudly bear his name, a fitting, permanent tribute to a humble hero who embodies the spirit of the Greatest Generation and the very best of Illinois.”

Bernie’s son, Keith Bluestein, who accompanied his dad to Washington, D.C. for the medal ceremony last year, said, “When I got the call from Raja’s office, it was surreal. I was amazed.”

Bernie Bluestein took the news in stride.

“You know me. I’m not a pusher. Anytime anybody names something after you, it’s quite an honor,” he said. “It’s a good feeling.”

He said it is wonderful that the Ghost Army continues to receive recognition.

“I’m really proud and happy about it,” he said.