Dale Cheeley

“The Kinmundy Express”

April 25, 1945 – “Omega: It was reported here last week that Dale CHEELY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Forrest CHEELY, former residents of Omega, has been killed in action.”

Feb. 17, 1949 – “Omega: Several from here attended services held for Sgt. Dale CHEELEY whose body recently arrived from overseas.  Services were held at the Church of God at Salem with interment in the Christian Church cemetery here.”

  Charles Crutchfield

“The Kinmundy Express”

June 14, 1962 - "Charles Ellis CRUTCHFIELD Enlists in Marines: Charles Ellis CRUTCHFIELD, 18, son of Mrs. Arizona CRUTCHFIELD, Kinmundy, recently enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and is now taking his Recruit Training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif.   On completed of recruit training and 4 weeks of advanced training at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Pvt. CRUTCHFIELD will receive 20 days leave before reporting to a new duty station or a Marine Corps Technical School  Pvt. CRUTCHFIELD enlisted under the Marine Corps 120 day delay program where a young man can enlist and chose the day he wishes to leave for active duty.  Pvt. CRUTCHFIELD also enlisted under the Marine Corps Buddy Program with a friend, Richard LUSBY, of Opdyke.  the two Marines will stay together through recruit training and advance training.  Anyone desiring further information on the Marine Corps. 120 Day Delay Program Aviation, Buddy Program or any other Marine Corps Program should contact Sgt. Talley or Sgt. Cavitt at the Salem Court House on Thursdays at 10 a.m., or write Marine Recruiter, Mt. Vernon, Ill."

Oct. 4, 1962 - “Marine Private Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD, son of Mrs. Arizona Crutchfield of Kinmundy completed 4 weeks of Individual Combat training at Camp Pendleton, Calif.”  (A photo was included with this article.)

Feb. 20, 1964 - "Charles Crutchfield, in a letter addressed to his aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hampsten, states that he is now on duty in Okinawa with the U.S. Marines.  While doing a short duty in Japan, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal.  He will do a 13 month duty with the 3^rd Battalion, the 3^rd Marines at Camp Schwab, Okinawa."

Nov. 26, 1964 - "Charles CRUTCHFIELD of the U.S. Marines and who has just returned from the Philippines called on Mrs. Bertha CURRY Thursday.  After his furlough, he will return for duty in Virginia."

Dec. 9, 1965 – “Cpl. Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD is stationed in Viet Nam since Aug. 19^th.  (His address thru San Francisco was included.)”

Jan. 13, 1966 – “Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hampsten have received word from his nephew, Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD, that he has been promoted to Sgt., and is now stationed in Chu Lai, Viet Nam.  He wishes to think everyone for their cards and gifts he received during the Christmas holidays.”

March 10, 1966 – “Letter from Sgt. Charles CRUTCHFIELD Received the Same Day as Death Message” – “The following letter was received Tuesday, March 8 about noon by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hampsten, from their nephew, Sgt. Charles CRUTCHFIELD: 

     March 3, 1966 - Dear Uncle Charlie & Aunt Lela; Hi – I do hope everybody is in the best of health by now.  I am doing just fine, a little tired.  We got back 28 Feb. after being gone 31 days in the field, and it was rough at times.  In our Co., we had 8 killed and about 30 wounded in that big operation we were on.  At times it fired real close but I came out OK.  My squad is the only one that haven’t lost anyone yet.  We are resting a little here in Chu Loi and we should be here a couple of months.  It is real hot and dry here.  We have our tents on the beach and the sand is real bad.  A person can’t buy too much of anything around here so I would like for you to send a few things.  I would like you to send it air mail and I will pay for everything, just let me know.  I would like six rolls of 135 Roto color x-prints film, and a box of big flashlight batteries, jet black Sheaffer ink cartridges for a ink pin, and a kool aid and something to eat.  Well that is about all for now.  I have taken a few pictures and when I get them back, I will send them to you.  Write when you can.  I do try and write as much as I can.  When we are out in the field, the mail might go out and it might not – never know.   Charles.

    A few minutes after reading the above letter, about 12:30, Mr. and Mrs. Hampsten received a phone call from a recruiting Sergeant from Centralia that Sgt. CRUTCHFIELD had been killed near Chu Loi in Viet Nam.  The officer arrived soon after in the Hampsten home and reported that Sgt. CRUTCHFIELD had lost his life March 5^th, due to head, back and arm injuries.  Charles, who was 22, Jan. 13 of this year, had made his home with Mr. and Mrs. Hampsten the past ten years.  He is also survived by his father, Ed, of Salem; mother, Mrs. Arizona Crutchfield; brother, Bill, and sisters, Judy and Glinda, Brush, Colo.”

March 24, 1966 - "Charles CRUTCHFIELD": "Sgt. Charles CRUTCHFIELD, U.S.M.C., born Jan. 13, 1944, was killed in action while serving his country in Viet Nam.  Charles was fatally wounded in the Quangngai military engagement with multiple wounds of the head, back and arm on March 5th.  He attended the KACHS and had service in the Marines for the past five years.  Charles was known throughout the county and was active in the county youth of the Christian Churches before enlisting in the Marines.  He was baptized in the local Christian church, Nov. 12, 1959.  He is survived by his father, Ed of Salem, mother, Arizona of Brush, Colo., brother, Bill, sisters, Mrs. Judy BASS and Mrs. Glenda BIRCH all of Brush, Colo.  Funeral services were held at the Kinmundy Grade Gymnasium Sunday, March 20 at 2:00 p.m., Brother Wesley CORNELL, officiating.  Burial was in Phillips Cemetery."

March 2, 1967 - "In Memoriam: In loving memory of our nephew, Sgt. Charles E. CRUTCHFIELD, who was killed in action in Vietnam March 5, 1966.  Many a lonely heartache, often silent tears, but always a beautiful memory of one we loved so dear.  God gave us faith and courage, to bear the parting blow, but what it meant to give him up, no one will ever know.    Sadly missed by Mr. and Mrs. Charles HAMPSTEN."

  Lester Dorr

Lester Dorr - “The Marion County Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – March 13, 1919 - “The Alma News” section

      A telegram from the War Department was received last Saturday by Mrs. Eunice AUSTIN, telling of the death of her son, Lester DORR, who died from bronchial pneumonia, while with the A.E. F. in France.  It is an irony of fate that he should have passed thru several battles without a scratch and then died of disease on February 12.  He had been expected home sometime and this announcement of his death came as a blow to his mother, who has the sympathy of the entire community in her hour of trial."

  Joseph Downs

“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – July 25, 1918;

Mrs. Mattie DOWNS, Kinmundy, Ill.

Dear Mother,

            Long before this, you have received the sad news of the death of your brave and loyal son, Joseph, who died at the hospital from gas received the morning of May 27^th.  Mother, you are to be proud as your son died as all good soldiers should – with his face to the enemy even after being seriously gassed did he falter.  We buried him in the little cemetery on the hill beside his comrades where he sleeps tonight as the little stream below flows on toward the sea.

            If there is anything I can do, you only have to write me.  All his personal things will be sent you by the government war officials.

            Assuring you of our deepest sympathy in your loss.  I am, sincerely yours,

            Winfred E. ROBB; Chaplain 168^th Inf. 

“The Marion County Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Nov. 7, 1918

“In Memorian: For every star in it's field of blue; For every stripe of stainless blue; Thousands of the tried and true; Have given their lives for you and me.

Joseph DOWNS, Joe, as he was familiarly known, was a volunteer.  He was a soldier when he gave that life for the cause of all humanity, where his comrades mournfully tenderly bore his body, wrapped in his blanket to the grave, Joe had fullfilled his mission.  This boy was born in our city March 28, 1890, son of Melvin and Mattie DOWNS, falling "Somewhere Over There" May 27, 1918, Leaving a widowed mother, 5 brothers, 3 sisters.  The sisters are Gladys, Mattie Bell, and Thelma.  The brothers are Ruby, Harry, John, Clifford and Tracey; John being in the service.  Joe enlisted in the service 1917 while living in Patterson, Iowa, and loyally supported his Co. until he met his death.  He lived here until he was grown, was taken into the M.E. Church while Rev. J.B. CUMMONS was pastor.  He also attended the Christian Church in this city.  He was one of our boys.  He was one boy of the great army of anxious sleepless war mothers.   Thousands of them are to be found on this land of ours and thousands and thousands in the homes across the sea.  Where are the boys?  "Somewhere in France."  The sound of taps marked the end of this soldier's day.  In the cemetery somewhere "over there" a little wooden cross bears the name Joseph Downs that is familiar and dear to us.  We know he was associated here with his loved ones, with his school mates.  His supreme sacrifice and bravery has touched a very tender cord in all our hearts a great danger threatened our country and this danger is being averted by the offering of such lives and Joe was our first offering.  The dearest treasures, the manhood of America are the sacrifices.  Joe belonged to that glorious Rainbow Division which President Wilson saw fit to christen with that beautiful name, that was ages ago set in Heaven as a promise.  Time has revealed how fitting the name.  This boy as thousands of others gave his fresh heart and courage to the brave allied soldiers trembling on the verge of a terrible defeat and across the darkened outlook of many a French mother.  The rainbow has proven a bow of promise.  Joe heard the Country calling and was with the first to go.  His memory with the boys will always linger with us and so we are beginning to realize this greatness of the wonderful offering and we must come to the fuller appreciation of the debt of gratitude which we owe to our soldiers and not to the soldiers alone but a debt we owe to those whose bleeding hearts are giving up their loved ones in this mighty struggle for justice and liberty.  Our duty lies clearly before us. Joe's life was given that you and I might enjoy the blessings and liberty of our nation.  Our grief over the loss of these boys can not be expressed in words.  In the years to come, Joe DOWNS name with all the rest shall be sacred.  We feel that honor is due to the ones who have given the boys in this great cause.  They love the boys enough to give them up.  Yet it follows after this love of mine; Like a convoy across the sea; To keep you safe on the battle line; Like that trusty rifle in your hand; To go with you through "No Man's Land".  And should you join the unknown land; My love would stand in that last hour; My self incarnate to give you power; For love never faileth lad you know; And I love you enough to let you go."   The purposes of the almighty are perfect and must prevail.  With tears, we the people with tears resign these boys to God and History.  There is rest for the Boys in Heaven."

“The Marion County Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Feb. 6, 1919

“Praises Work of Kinmundy Woman” - Jan. 25, 1919

People of Kinmundy, Illinois: 

I returned to the U.S.A. on the U.S. Huron, an old German boat, Frederick the Great, the one that the Kaiser made the trip around the world on in 1907.  On our trip home, we had the sad experience of getting into a storm with a 120 mile gale lasting for 24 hours and the constant rolling of the ship was very tiresome and made many sick.  During the night when the store was at its worst the ship rolled 51 degrees.  Of course not being real seamen, you may have some idea what we all thought.

We landed at Newport News, Va. Jan. 18, and the Red Cross and the Hospital certainly made us feel at home and at the hospital here, the Red Cross have wonderful community houses for the returned soldiers and while visiting there I had the pleasure of meeting Miss RUTHERFORD of your town and she certainly is a grand lady to be among the boys for she’s a regular mother to us all.  When she learned I was from the Rainbow Division we had many things to talk about and the first thing she asked me was, “Do you know Joseph DOWNS?” and she was very surprised when I knew him so well.  Up until the time that Joe was killed, most of my meals in France were cooked by him and I might say that my Xmas and New Years dinners a year ago were cooked by Joe and if we had been at home it couldn’t have been better.  Joe certainly was well liked by the boys of his company and had a great many friends through the Regiment for he was always up and doing.

The 42nd (Rainbow Division) was in the trenches for four months straight on the Lorraine front and during our stay there we had several scraps with Fritz and at midnight on May 27, the Germans sent over several hundred large gas shells in the area where our advanced dressing station and kitchens were located and you would not wonder why men die from this gas if you could see how it turned the grass and trees yellow at this place.  From this dressing station we sent two hundred and seventy-five to the hospital who were gassed; several died on the road and many others after they arrived and Joe DOWNS was among them.  A boy who sacrificed all he had, his life.  One of his friends was killed and his captain badly gassed at the same time. Words cannot describe a gas attack or any other kind of battle so I won't attempt it.

We have a Victrola in our Ward that was bought by the people of Kinmundy and we sure enjoy it.  Nothing like that at the front, our only music there was the whizzing and busting of shells.  We had two regiment of Artillery 75 M in our Division - one from Minnesota and one from Illinois and when the Doughboys had them behind them in a drive they were satisfied and if they can't make the Huns retreat, no one can.

Sgt. Carl W. ASCHEN; 168^th Inf., 42^nd Div.; Winterset, Iowa

"The Kinmundy Express" - Aug. 4, 1921 - "Taps"; "Remains of Joseph DOWNS Buried Here Sunday"

"As I stand here beside the coffin containing the body of our own heroic dead, it seems I am standing our heroic dead, it seems I am standing on Holy ground.  Ground consecrated by the blood of our brave boys, and I hope the time will soon come when we will really appreciate our own America and the brave men and boys, who died to give us such a rich heritage.  We are grateful for the bodies of our boys that they shall await the Resurrection in the homeland and sleep the years away beneath the dear old flag for which they died.  I have always taken pleasure in shaking hands with a Veteran of the Civil War and I never have let a Khaki clad boy pass me without a grasp of the hand and a "God bless you."  Let us never withhold a kind worked, for we  can never repay them, for what they have done for us.  For every star in its field of blue, For every stripe of stainless hue, Thousands of the tried and true, Have given their lives for me and you.  Joseph DOWNS, "Joe", as he was familiarly known, was a volunteer.  He was a soldier when he gave his life for the cause of humanity, and when his comrades tenderly bore his body, wrapped in his blanket and covered with the flag, for which he died to the grave, Joe had fulfilled his mission as a hero.  This boy was born in our City March 22, 1889, was a son of Melvin and Mattie DOWNS, was Gassed in France, May 27th and died in a Hospital at Baccarat the same day, leaving a widowed mother, 5 brothers and 3 sisters.  The sisters are Gladys, Mattie Bell, and Thelma.  The brothers are Ruby, Harry, John, Clifford, and Tracy.  John is Sgt. Major of the Regulars stationed at the Panama Canal.  Tracy is in the Navy in London, England at the present time.  Joe enlisted in the service in 1917, while living in Patterson, Iowa, and loyally supported his Co. until he met his death at the age of 29 years, 2 months and 5 days.  He lived here until he was grown, was taken into the M.E. Church while Rev. J.B. Cummins was pastor, attended our schools, was at one time a pupil of the writer, who found him a good natured and cheery student.  In a cemetery in France, the sound of "Taps" marked the end of this soldier's day and a little wooden cross bore the name of "Joseph DOWNS".  He was one of our town boys, he was associated here with his loved ones and schoolmates.  His supreme sacrifice and bravery has touched a very tender chord in all our hearts.  Joe was our first offering, the dearest treasures, the young manhood of America are the sacrifices.  Joe belonged to that glorious Rainbow Division, which President Wilson saw fit to christen, with that beautiful name, that was ages ago set in Heaven as a promise.  Time has proven how fitting the name. This boy, as thousands of others, gave his fresh heart and courage to the brave, allied soldiers, trembling on the verge of a terrible defeat.  The "Rainbow" has proven a bow of promise.  Joe heard the country calling and was among the first to go.  His memory with the other boys will always linger with us, and we are now beginning to realize the greatness of the offering made by these boys, and we must come to a fuller appreciation of the debt of gratitude, which we owe to our soldiers and to those whose bleeding hearts gave up their loved ones, this mighty struggle for justice and liberty.  A little incident of premonition will be in place here, "On the day that Joe DOWNS and Russell SALSBURY, a chum, were leaving for training camp, they erected a flag pole, in front of the SALSBURY home planting it in cement, before the cement hardened each inscribed his name and underneath wrote "Killed in action in France."  They were both killed the same day.  Some who stayed at home, try to say the boys went out for a picnic, but by this, we known, they are realized, what might overtake them.  They bravely volunteered and bravely died, for us.  In looking over a memorial book, "The Price of our Heritage", one young boy when dying said, "O for one more day, back in the old hometown, with the folks, before I go", another said, "Tell mother I died as a soldier".  this comment for one, "Private T---, was a college man and an earnest Christian", another in his delirium, continually called for mother."  These are but a few of the heart longings that were in the thoughts of our dear boys, God forbid, that we should ever complain, at the taxes, raised, to help care for, the wounded ones, or the dependents of the deceased.  "Shall we forget those World-War days; That made us comrades all?  Shall we forget how swift the feet; That ran at duty's call?  Shall we forget the honored dead; That sleep beneath the sod? Who gave their lives for Liberty; Their country and their God?  No; here we pledge Fraternity; With every human life; That sang the song of victory won; Or fell beneath the strife."

IN MEMORY OF: Cook Joseph DOWNS, Co. A. 168th Inf.; who died May 24th, 1918.  He bravely laid down his life for the cause of his country. His name will ever remain fresh in the hearts of his friends and comrades.  The record of his honorable service will be preserved in the archives of the American Expeditionary Forces.   John J. Pershing; Commander in Chief.

IN MEMORY OF Joseph DOWNS, Cook, Co. A, 168th info., who served with honor in the World War and died in the service in the country.  Woodrow Wilson.

Memorial from France: To the memory of Joseph DOWNS, Cook, Co. A., 168th Inf. of the United States of America.  Who died for liberty during the Great War.  The Homage of France.  R. Poincare, President of the Republic.

IN THE SHADE OF THE TREES, where he had played when a child and under the large Chautauqua tent, the funeral services of Joseph DOWNS was held Sunday afternoon at 5 o'clock.  One of the largest crowds that has been here for some time came to pay their last tribute of respect to one who had given up his all that we might enjoy that liberty and life intended by our Creator.  The funeral services were conducted under the auspices of the American Legion.  The memorial services were led by Rev. T.A. MARTIN and A.T. WILLIAMS.  Short talks were made by Chas. F. PRUETT and F.W. VORHIES.  Mr. VOHIES is a member of the newly organized 168th Infantry, Rainbow Div. of Iowa.  Singing the male quartette, solo by Mrs. F.O. GRISSOM, Obituary given by Mrs. A.E.W. PRUETT.  The Kinmundy Band played the National Anthem.  After the talks were made, the casket was placed on the wagon, that had been arranged in army style, and was drawn by four white horses to the Evergreen Cemetery, where as the sun sank from sight, "Taps" were sounded and the remains of one of our heroes was lowered in the grave.  All who read of the work of the Rainbow Division agree that they won all honors that have been bestowed on them, to those who fell the honor of being wrapped in the American flag, when taken to their last resting place, is unequalled by words of praise, when it comes time for one's departure from the walks of life nothing could be grander than being clothed with the flag they had offered and given their life to protect. 

To OUR FRIENDS: You don't know how much we appreciate you in assisting in every way possible at the burial of our dear son and brother, Joe, who gave his life for his country as a brave soldier, on the battle fields of France.  We especially mention the words of consolation, the music, the beautiful flowers and untiring efforts of the Legion boys to lay to rest tenderly their comrade in arms.  Words fail to express our appreciation of your every set of kindness.  May God bless you.  Mrs. Mattie DOWNS and family."

  Floyd Eagan

        (V-248b) - Floyd Eagan                                      

"The Kinmundy Express" 

July 10, 1941 - "Merle JACKSON, Christy GENTRY, Stephen and Floyd EAGAN, all of Camp Forrest, Tenn. were permitted to spend the weekend at home with their parents.  More of the boys will be home this weekend."

Oct. 16, 1941 - "Kenneth JACKSON motored to Camp Forrest, Tenn. Friday.  Merle JACKSON, Harold JONES and Floyd and Steven EAGAN, Eary GENTRY, Dwight WILLIAMS, and James HILL of Sigel accompanied him to Kinmundy.  Others home on furlough are Bob HANNA and James BASSETT."

Apr. 2, 1942 - "Privates First Class Stephen and Floyd EAGAN of Camp Forrest, Tenn., came Saturday night to spend 7 day furlough with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN."

Jan. 13, 1944 - "Here’s one from Pvt. Floyd EAGAN, who is now watching the hula girls. He says: I want to write a few lines to let you know where I am, but I can’t say anything about what I am doing. I am still in the Hawaiian Islands, but on a different island now. They are beautiful, but they are not what you folks back there think they are, and I wouldn’t take all that I have seen here to be back in Kinmundy, but I wouldn’t take anything for what I have seen. I just came back from mail call and I sure did good tonight. I got four letters and that sure helps. The letters from the boys in the service is the first thing I look for. I would like to thank all the neighbors and friends for the beautiful greeting cards which I received for Christmas."

March 15, 1945 - "PFC Floyd F. EAGAN, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, Killed on Luzon 19 February" - "Again, sad news has reached our community from the war front.  It was little expected and struck like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky.  On Tuesday morning, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN received a telegram from the War Department reading, "your son, Private First Class Floyd F. EAGAN, was killed in action 19 February on Luzon."  Floyd, the son of Harrison R. and Lena EAGAN, was born Sept. 19, 1918 in Alma township where he attained his grade school education.  The family moved to their present home, just north of the C & E.I. lake in 1936 and Floyd attended our local high school, graduating with the class of '40.  He was a member of Company I, Illinois National Guard, at Salem, and he and his brother, Stephen, were mustered into the U.S. Army on March 5, 1941.  After training in various camps, this outfit shipped overseas in July 1943.  Stephen did not pass his overseas physical examination and was given a medical discharge.  These two brothers had been together until this time.  This outfit, the 33rd Division landed on the Hawaiian Islands, going from there to New Guinea, thence to the East Indies and finally landed in the Philippines about February 1st.  We have all read of the bloody battles that have taken place there.  Floyd was a member of the 130th Infantry.  Thus closes the chapter of the life of this good lad who, like many others, gave his last full measure of devotion for his country.  He is another boy whom we would like to remember as a very quiet, unassuming lad, who had a smile for everyone he met.  Besides his parents, he is survived by two brothers, Stephen of this city, and Harold of Champaign, and two sisters, Mary Gordon and Thelma Molenhour, both of Iuka.  A memorial will be given in honor of this brave lad in the near future."

March 22, 1945 - "Memorial Services Sunday for PFC Floyd EAGAN" - "Memorial Services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, in the Primitive Baptist church in Alma, Ill., for PFC.  Floyd F. EAGAN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, of this city, who was killed in action on Luzon, February 19th Elder W.E. WRIGHT will deliver the message and taps will be sounded by the American Legion."

March 29, 1945 - "Card of Thanks: We wish to thank all our many friends and neighbors for your kind expressions of sympathy and condolence in the loss of our son and brother, PFC Floyd F. EAGAN.  We also wish to thank the singers and the American Legion for their services.  Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN and Children."

June 24, 1948 - "Body of PFC Floyd EAGAN to Arrive Here Soon" - "The casketed remains of Private First Class Floyd F. EAGAN, a World War II deceased member of the army from Kinmundy being returned from overseas for final burial, will arrive within the next five weeks accompanied by a uniformed army escort from the Chicago Distribution Center of The American Graves Registration Division.  The body of PFC EAGAN was interred in the USFA, Mil. Cem. Santa Barbara, temporary military cemetery in the Philippine Islands, but has been returned to this country for final interment at the request of his next of kin, Harrison R. EAGAN (Father), Kinmundy, Ill."

July 29, 1948 - "Pfc Floyd EAGAN to Arrive Here Friday Night" - "The casketed remains of PFC Floyd F. EAGAN, will arrive in Kinmundy on I.C. Train No. 29, Friday evening and will be taken to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN, northwest of this city.  Funeral services will be held Sunday morning at 11 o'clock from the Gymnasium, Elder DOTY, of Carmi, officiating.  Interment will be made in Evergreen Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  PFC EAGAN was killed in action on Luzon, Feb. 19, 1945."

Aug. 5, 1948 - "Rites Held Sunday for PFC Floyd EAGAN: The casketed remains of PFC Floyd EAGAN arrived here Friday night and was met by members of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  They were taken to the home of the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison EAGAN north of town where they lay in state until the funeral hour.  Funeral services were held Sunday morning at 11 o’clock from the gymnasium, Rev. DOTY, officiating.  Interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  PFC EAGAN was killed in action on Feb. 19, 1945.  He was interred in the USFA Military Cemetery, Santa Barbara, temporary cemetery in the Philippine Islands.  Floyd, the son of Harrison R. and Lena EAGAN, was born Sept. 19, 1918 in Alma twp. where he attained his grade school education.  The family moved to their present home just north of the C. & E.I. Lake in 1936 and Floyd attended our high school, graduation with the class of ‘40.  He was a member of Company L Illinois, National Guard, at Salem.  This outfit was mustered in the U.S. Army March 5, 1941.  After training in various camps, it shipped overseas in July 1943.  This outfit, the 33^rd Division, landed on the Hawaiian Islands, going from there to New Guinea, thence to the East Indies and finally landed in the Philippines about Feb. 1^st. He was killed in action on Feb. 19, 1945.  He was a member of the 130^th Infantry.  Floyd is another boy who we remember as a very quiet, unassuming lad, who had a smile for everyone he met.  Besides his parents, he is survived by two brothers, Stephen of this city, and Harold of Champaign, and two sisters, Mary GORDON and Thelma MOLENHOUR, both of Iuka." 

Letters that Floyd Eagan's sister, Mary (Eagan) Gordon, sent to Floyd overseas, but he was killed before he could read them, and they were returned to Marion county.

  Thomas L. Edwards

“The Kinmundy Express”

June 15, 1944 - "The following from this community will leave soon for their preinduction examination Noah Jackson FERRELL, Garrell Floyd JONES, Thomas Leroy EDWARDS."

Aug. 31, 1944 - "Omega: Thomas EDWARDS, who is in the Merchant Seaman service, is home."

Jan. 10, 1946 –“Omega: Thomas EDWARDS and Virgil HARRIS are home on furlough and were in Omega, Saturday.”

Jan. 14, 1954: "Thomas EDWARDS Declared Dead August 7, 1952: Mrs. Ruth EDWARDS, of Salem, received word Thursday from the government, declaring her husband, Thomas L. EDWARDS, 28, officially dead.  Thomas, a member of the Marines, was reported missing in action on Aug. 7, 1952 in Korea.  He had previously been wounded and sent back into action.  Mrs. EDWARDS is a bookkeeper for the Marion County Service Co.  There are 2 small daughters.  Thomas was also a brother to Mrs. Kenneth WILKINSON, residing south of this city."

Jan. 28, 1954: "Thomas EDWARDS Memorial Sunday: Memorial services will be held for Thomas L. EDWARDS in the Baptist church in Iuka Sunday with Rev. Delbert GOIF, the pastor, in charge.  The services will be concluded in the East Lawn Cemetery in Salem, where a monument will be dedicated to his honor.  The services in the cemetery will be in charge of the Salem Post American Legion.  Friends are welcome to call at the Edwards home, 1108 E. Church St., Salem, anytime this week.  And flowers may be taken to the home or left at the Atkins funeral home.  It will be remembered that Thomas was reported missing in action in Korea on Aug. 7, 1952.  There were hope of him being alive but his name has not appeared on the prisoner list.  Therefore, the government has officially declared him dead.  The deceased leaves a wife and 2 small daughters living in Salem.  A sister, Mrs. Kenneth WILKINSON, resides south of Kinmundy." 

  Larry J. Gammon

"Aouthern Illinoisan" - May 25, 1971

  Eugene Phillip Griffin

"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill.

Dec. 26, 1918

"In Memoriam

He stood for freedom and for right; No other thought in mind; And bravely served his country's call; So brave, so true, so kind."

"Whereas, God in His Infinite wisdom, has again broken the thread of life and removed from among us, our beloved member and co-laborer, Eugene P. GRIFFIN, whose life of loving deeds and unassuming character will forever linger with us.  Therefore, be it resolved, that we bow in humble submission to His Holy will.  That we, the F.E. & C.U. of A., deplores its loss and extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family and that a copy of this memoriam be spread upon our minutes and a copy be sent to the family and to each of the county papers. 

Respectfully submitted,

L.E. BASOM, J.N. EMBSER, Chas. CARPENTER

Another blue star in Marion County's service flag has been changed to gold by the transforming power of service.  Eugene GRIFFIN, son of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor GRIFFIN of Brubaker, responded to his country's call last September and was sent to a camp in Virginia.  After a few months training, he was sent to an embarkation camp but was later returned to Virginia, where he contracted the influenza, terminating in pneumonia from which he died last Friday.  Although his home was at Brubaker, he was so well known here that we consider him as one of our "boys".

  Ruby C. Hadden

“The Kinmundy Express”

June 10, 1920 – "Obituary: Ruby HADDEN Brought Here From England for Burial.  Ruby C. HADDEN, beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. C.W. HADDEN was born near Bee Branch, Marion Co., Illinois February 25, 1895 where he grew to manhood, admired and respected by all who chanced to know him.  Here under the inspiration and influence of Christian home and parents he early in life developed the principles of loyal, noble manhood which were to fit him for true living; so that in after years when he heard the call of outraged and struggling humanity for men who would risk their all, men who would live and die for the principles of truth, right and justice, Ruby answered, "Here am I, take me".  

    Shortly after the United States had entered the great world's war a call was sent out for volunteers to serve in our state militia.  Ruby answered the first call and was enlisted in Co. L. of the 9th Reg. Illinois Home Guards in which he rendered loyal efficient service, until furloughed home in September 1917 to await the further call of his country.

    Since the early years of his boyhood a warm friendship existed between Ruby and Opal, the accomplished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John WALKINGTON, and as the years of maturity came on this friendship grew and ripened into true love and Opal became the bride of Ruby C. HADDEN.  And now during his temporary release from military service knowing that the call to dirty might come at any time, he was fully convinced that the interests of his affinanced could be better protected by closer union, so they were quiely married November 3, 1917, and lived in happy marriage bliss 'til the 21 day of June, 1918, when Ruby again responded to his countries call.  This time he entered into the national service under the selection draft and was assigned to Sweney Automobile School at Kansas City, where he served for some time and was then sent to Camp Johnson near Jacksonville, Florida, and a short time later was transferred to Camp Upton, N.Y. where he was assigned to oversea duty, and on Sept. 15, 1918, he bade goodbye to home and friends and loved ones, entered the troop ship Olympia and sailed away.

    On the voyage overseas, he contracted a severe case of influenza and was very sick when he landed in England Sept. 30.  He was tkane from the ship directly to the Red Cross Hospital at Romsey Hants where the combined efforts skill and science were exerted to save his young life but without avail.  He had developed a fatal case of bronchial pneumonia and on the eve of October 10 the final call came and again Ruby heard and answered "ready".  He made the supreme sacrifice, paid the last debt and was free.

    He was buried with military honors in the American cemetery at Winchester, England, the funeral director being a representative of the American Red Cross.

    We have no knowledge that Ruby while he lived among us ever professed Christ as his personal Savior.  Altho a firm believer in the religious of true Christian fellowship, but when about to start on his last mission he promised his mother he would not forget to put his trust in God, and in his last letter to her, written just before he left his homeland he reminded her that he had not forgotten his promise and we have the testimony of the minister who attended him during his last illness that Ruby had certainly made his peace with God before he went to sleep.

    He has left behind, father, mother, 2 sisters, a brother now in the service in France and Opal bride of a few months who mourn for him as sleepeth but is not dead.  The body was returned to this country by the government and arrived at Kinmundy under military escort Monday evening.  The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon, May 8, the funeral procession which was in charge of the local post of the American Legion forming at the undertaking rooms of J.H. Nelms at 1:30 o'clock.  A short service was conducted at the grove in the cemetery by Rev. W.R. BRADLEY, and then the body was taken to the grave where the final military honors were paid by the Legion.  Many friends and relatives of the deceased were in attendance, and a quartet composed of his former neighbors furnished excellent music."

  Glenn Hamilton

“The Kinmundy Express”

Sept. 4, 1952 – “Word was received last week by Mrs. Glenn HAMILTON that her husband had arrived at Camp Drake Japan on the 14^th of August. He left there for Korea on the 17^th of August. Pvt. HAMILTON entered the service on Feb. 11, 1952, and took his training at Ft. Riley, Kansas. Mrs. HAMILTON is the former Jean SPURLIN, formerly of this city.”

Jan. 8, 1953 – “Pfc. G. HAMILTON Killed in Action in Korea, Dec. 22: Mrs. Jean HAMILTON, the former Jean SPURLIN of this city, received a telegram from the Sec. of the Army that her husband, Pfc. Glenn E. HAMILTON, had been killed in action in Korea on Dec. 22. The telegram stated that further details would follow by letter. No further word has, however, been received by Mrs. HAMILTON as of yet. On Dec. 29, both Mrs. HAMILTON and her mother, Mrs. W.T. SPURLIN received letters from Glenn dated on Dec. 21 in which he wished for them a Merry Christmas. Mrs. HAMILTON is now making her home with her parents on South Eight Street, Vandalia. Pfc. HAMILTON only recently was present the Combat Infantryman Badge for excellent performance of duty under enemy fire in Korea. He was serving with the 40^th Infantry Division and had been in Korea since July 1. He was born near St. James and would have been 23 years old on Jan. 2^nd. He attended the St. Elmo H.S. At the time he entered service on Feb. 11, 1952, he was employed by the Robinson Drilling Co. Previously he had been employed at the J.S. & S. shoe factory and the Wides Oil Station in Vandalia. On July 3, 1948, he was married to Miss Jean SPURLIN. Besides his wife, he leaves his mother, Mrs. John REYNOLDS of St. James, and a sister, Mrs. Bernice BOLYARD of Bluff City.”

Feb. 19, 1953 – “Funeral services for PFC Glen Eugene HAMILTON, age 23, who was killed in Korea on Dec. 22, 1952, will be held Feb. 22 in the Christian Church in Vandalia. Interment will be in Fairlawn Cemetery. He was the son of Loren HAMILTON and Mrs. Fay HAMILTON REYNOLDS of Vandalia. He was born in St. James, Ill. on Dec. 30, 1929, and married Jean SPURLIN, formerly of Kinmundy, and now residing in Vandalia, on July 3, 1948. He leaves his parents; his wife, Jean; and one sister, Mrs. Bernice BOLYARD, Bluff City. Glen was a member of the Macedonia Christian Church. He entered the U.S. Armed Services Feb. 11, 1952, and a member of the 40^th division, 223^rd Infantry Division. “

  Dean Hanks

             Dean Hanks                                                    (V-303) - Dean Hanks funeral

"The Kinmundy Express"

Aug. 31, 1944 - "Sgt. Dean HANKS, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred HANKS, Reported Missing in Action Aug. 8th": "Deputy Sheriff and Mrs. Fred HANKS, now living in Salem, but formerly of Omega twp., received a message from the War Dept. last Thursday stating their eldest son, Sgt. Dean HANKS, has been missing in action in France since Aug. 8th. Inasmuch as the message read "missing", the family has hopes that he will turn up O.K in the near future. There has been cases like this and the boys would turn up later. So they still have hopes. Sgt. Dean HANKS entered the service March 25, 1942, was shipped overseas in Dec. 1943, landing in England where he was stationed until the invasion of France. He is 35 years of age. The last letter received by the family from him, was dated July 26th. Mr. and Mrs. HANKS have another son in the service also, Sgt. Donald HANKS, now stationed in Italy. They also have another son at home, Doyle. Also 3 daughters, Mrs. Eileen DYE of Fairfield, Mrs. Louise BRADY of Charleston, S.C., and Miss Fleta, who is at present in Charleston, S.C. with her sister. One son-in-law is also in the service, Lt. (jg) Theodore BRADY, now stationed in Charleston, S.C. Mr. and Mrs. HANKS have many old neighbors and friends in this community who extend to them their deepest sympathy and they are uttering prayers that the missing lad may be safe somewhere and will show up later on."

June 24, 1948 - "Body of Sgt. Dean HANKS' Casketed Remains on way Home" - "The casketed remains of Sergeant Dean HANKS, a World War II deceased member of the army from Kinmundy being returned from overseas for final burial, will arrive within the next five weeks accompanied by a uniformed army escort from the Chicago Distribution Center of The American Graves Registration Division.  The body of Sgt. HANKS was interred in the St. James temporary military cemetery France, but has been returned to this country for final interment at the request of his next of kin, Fred HANKS, Route 4, Kinmundy, Ill."

July 22, 1948 - "The casketed remains of Sgt. Dean HANKS will arrive in Kinmundy Tuesday July 27^th on the C. & E.I. Train No. 123 at 5:44 a.m.  It will be met by members of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion, and escorted to the Linton funeral Home where it will lie in state until the funeral hour." 

Aug. 5, 1948 - "Rites Held Sunday for St. Dean HANKS: The casketed remains of Sgt. Dean HANKS arrived here on Tuesday morning of last week and was taken by the Linton Funeral Home where they lay in state until the funeral hour.  Funeral services were held from the Methodist Church in this city Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Rev. Oscar HAWKINS officiating, and Rev. Orlando BRAKEMEYER, assisting.  Interment was made in the Phillips Cemetery under the auspices of Farina Lodge No. 601 A.F. & A.M.  Dean, eldest son of Fred and Eva FOGERSON HANKS, was born in Omega twp., Oct. 11, 1908.  He attained his grade school education at the Oak Park School and attended Farina High School for one year.  The following summer, he was employed by the firm of Baum & Williams, who was constructing the hard road between Laclede and Kinmundy, as a cement finisher.  He liked his work so well that upon the completion of the contract, he hired out with the firm of Burner Bros. and did the same work for 3 years.  Having a desire to see a part of the west, he went to Colorado where he was employed as a ranch foreman for 3 years.  In 1936, he returned to Illinois and was employed by the State Highway Department.  He remained in the employ of the state until he entered the army.  He entered the service March 28, 1942 and shipped across in Jan. 1944, being stationed in England until the invasion of France.  He was a member of Co. B 25^th Engineer Bn., 6^th Division.  He was killed in action in France Aug. 8, 1944.  He was buried in the St. James Temporary Cemetery in France.   He was a member of Farina Lodge No. 601, A.F. & A.M.  Besides his bereaved parents, he is survived by 3 sisters, Eileen DYE of Centralia, Ill.; Louise BRADY and Fleeta HANKS, Dallas, Texas; two brothers, Doyle, Pauls Valley, Okla.; and Donald, Fairfield, Ill.; five nieces and nephews, Brad, Pam and Gregg DYE and Patricia and Jane BRADY; four uncles, Grover and Roy FOGERSON and Lloyd and Guy HANKS, and one aunt, Mrs. Maude COMBS.  Sgt. HANKS had a large number of friends which was evidenced by the profuse of flowers and the large crowd which attended the funeral and grave side services." 

  William Harley Hill

"The Kinmundy Express"

Feb. 12, 1942 - "Enters the Service" - "We received word this week that Pvt. William Harley HILL had just arrived at Camp Polk, La., and had been assigned for training purposes to the 83rd Arms Rec. Bat., 3rd Armored Division.  Pvt. HILL is the son of Mr. and Mrs. W.H. HILL, residing south of this city."

Nov. 18, 1943 - "Pvt. Bill HILL of Georgia arrived Wednesday for his furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harley HILL."

June 1, 1944 - "Pvt. Bill HILL is home from Kentucky with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harley HILL."

Oct. 26, 1944 - "Pvt. William H. HILL, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.H. HILL, Killed in Action in Luxembourg: Again our little community has been dealt a blow by the horrors of war. This time we are extending heartfelt sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. W. Harley HILL who are grieving the loss of their only son. They received the message from the War Dept. yesterday morning stating their son, Pvt. William H. HILL had been killed in action in Luxembourg on Oct. 7th. This was, indeed, a hard blow to this couple because just a week ago they had received a long letter from their son, dated Oct. 3rd, in which he had stated that he was in Luxembourg and everything was going along alright. And we suppose it was but what a difference a few days can make. Pvt. William H., son of W. Harley and Ethel MERCER HILL, was born on the farm occupied for many years by this good family, south and east of Kinmundy, May 19, 1923. He attended the local schools here, being in this district. When he was in his sophomore year in high school, he enlisted in the army and was inducted on Jan. 17, 1942. He received his training in various camps and shipped overseas July 15, 1944, landing in England. His company did not stay very long in England but crossed the channel into France. He was a member of C. A, 774th Tank Battalion, being a gunner and a radio man. Bill, as we knew him, was a regular attendant at Chapel Services as was evidenced by the numerous letters received from his Chaplain. They also received several letters from his commanding officers telling them what a splendid soldier he was. Besides the bereaved parents, he leaves 3 sisters, Miss Myrtle, who is a teacher in the Lawrenceville, Ill. schools; Louise HATFIELD of Winterhaven, Fla.; and Rhea WILLIAMS of Chicago. The flag over our service board now floats at half-mast in honor of the memory of another lad who has given his last full measure of devotion for his country. And the name of Private Bill has been added to our list to be remembered when we face the east on Nov. 11th.

Nov. 2, 1944 - "Pvt. William H. HILL, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harley HILL who was killed in action Oct. 7th in Luxembourg."

May 17, 1945 - "Erect Memorials: Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and Mr. and Mrs. W.H. HILL have erected beautiful memorials on their family lots in Evergreen Cemetery in honor of their sons, Sgt. Harold KLEISS, who sided of wounds in Belgium on Dec. 19, 1944, and Pvt. William HILL, who was killed in action in Luxembourg, Oct. 7, 1944.  The KLEISS memorial stands in the Catholic Cemetery while the HILL memorial stands on the MERCER lot on the east side of the cemetery.  The next time you visit the cemetery, view these beautiful memorials."

Dec. 16, 1948 - "Funeral Rites Held Sunday Afternoon for Pvt. William H. HILL: “Greater love hath no man than He who lays down his life for his friends.”  By losing his life in action in Luxembourg on Oct. 7, 1944, Pvt. William Harley HILL proved that his heart contained this greater love.  Bill, as everyone knew him, was born on a farm near Kinmundy, the son of William H. and Ethel MERCER HILL.  He attended the Kinmundy school, and when a sophomore, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, and was inducted Jan. 17, 1942.  After training in various camps as a gunner and radio man, he was sent to Europe, arriving there July 29, 1944.  He was with Co. A. 774^th Tank Battalion.  His family received numerous letters from his Chaplain stating that he was a regular attendant at Chapel Service.  His commanding officer wrote letters telling what a splendid soldier he was.  This has been a source of comfort to his sorrowing family.  Bill’s friends will long remember the sacrifice he made, along with his constant cheerfulness and his ever-ready smile.   His survivors are his parents of Kinmundy; and three sisters, Myrtle, Lawrenceville; Mrs. Louise HATFIELD, Winterhaven, Fla.; Mrs. Rhea WILLIAMS of Park Ridge, Ill.; 5 nephews, 1 niece, and a number of cousins and a host of friends.  Funeral services were held from the Methodist Church Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Rev. Orlando BRAKEMEYER officiating.  Interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery, under the auspices of Kinmundy Post 519, American Legion."  (Two pictures were included - one of Bill in uniform, and the other of his casket being carried by fellow soldiers.)

  Henry O. Hinkley, Jr.

(V-33) John D. Purcell, Dale Broom, and Henry O. Hinkley, Jr.

“The Kinmundy Express”

March 25, 1943 - "Mr. and Mrs. H.O. HINKLEY of Alma, have just received word from their son Henry, who was recently inducted into the army at Camp Grant, Ill.  Henry writes that he is taking his basic training in Calif."

July 6, 1944 - "PFC Henry O. HINKLEY Killed in Action June 7th in Southwest Pacific Theater: A telegram was received Tuesday evening by Mr. and Mrs. H.O. HINKLEY, of Alma, stating that their son, PFC Henry O. HINKLEY, Jr., had been killed in action on Biak Island on June 7th. Needless to say this cast a shadow of gloom over the entire community. This was Alma’s first casualty. PFC Henry O. HINKLEY, the youngest son of Henry O. and Abbie KELSEY HINKLEY, was born March 4, 1924, in Elvsburg, Penn., and died at the age of 20 years, 3 months, and 3 days. Most of his life was spent in and around Alma. He attended the High School in Salem, graduating with the class of ‘41 and where he had attained a great athletic record. He spent 2 years in Carbondale where he attended Southern Illinois Normal University. He was inducted into the Army on March 5, 1943, and assigned to the Infantry. He left the states July 1943, landing in Australia on July _. He was moved to New Guinea in March 1944 and has seen a good deal of combat service. After entering the service, he was never granted a furlough in order to visit homefolks. Besides his parents, he leaves 2 brothers, S. Sgt. Anson A., now with the Weather Section of the Army Air Forces and stationed in Dutch Guinea, and Harlan K. of Carbondale, Ill. The only sister, Audrey I. HARRIS, was killed in an auto accident near Alma in 1937. We are told that a memorial service will be held for this lad in Alma but the date for this service has not be set as yet. Our hearts are truly saddened and our heartfelt sympathy goes out for this good family."

Aug. 3, 1944 - "Memorial Services were held Sunday in the Alma Methodist Church for Pvt. Henry O. HINKLEY, who was killed in action on Biak Island, June 7. The following was the order of services: Song - LECKRONE Sisters; Prayer - Rev. HARD; Song - Alma Trio; Message - Dr. Roy N. KEEN; Remarks - Rev. Roy E. McGRATH; Taps. Henry Otis HINKLEY was born at Elysburg, Pa., March 4, 1924. He came to Greenville, Ill. with his parents in 1930 and to Alma, Ill. in 1934. He attended the grade schools in both Greenville and Alma and was graduated from Salem H.S. with high honors with the class of ‘41. He then attended the S.I.N.U. at Carbondale until called for duty with the U.S. Armed Forces on March 5, 1943. He gave his life for his country on June 7, 1944, immediately after a beachhead had been established on Biak Island, New Guinea. He was given military burial there and memorial services were held for him in Alma on July 30, 1944.  God in his Wisdom has closed the pages of another truly Christian American Life." (A list of those attending from a distance was included)." "Card of Thanks: With a sense of deepest humility and gratitude we wish to thank all who contributed in anyway to ease the sorrow and grief we suffer in the loss of our son, brother, and fiance.  Mr. and Mrs. H.O. HINKLEY, Mr. and Mrs. H.K. HINKLEY and Family, S.Sgt. Anson A. HINKLEY; Miss Grace RASCHE."

  George A. Johnson

"The Kinmundy Express"

Apr. 17, 1941 - "Lt. George JOHNSON of Fort Knox, Ky., spent Sunday here with his family who are making their home with Mrs. JOHNSON's parents, Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM."

June 5, 1941 - "Mrs. I.D. INGRAM accompanied his daughter, Mrs. George JOHNSON, and three children to Ft. Knox, Tenn., last Wednesday where they will make their home."

Jan. 28, 1943 - "Promoted: Mrs. Lucille JOHNSON received word from her husband that he has been promoted to the rank of Captain.  He is serving with the armored force in Northern Africa."

March 18, 1943 - "Captain George A. JOHNSON Awarded Silver Star for Gallantry on Tunisian Front" - "Mrs. Lucille JOHNSON, who is making her home with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM for the duration, received word from her husband, Captain George A. JOHNSON, stating that he had been awarded the Silver Star.  Along with his letter was a mimeographed sheet which read as follows:  Under the provisions of Army Regulations 600-45, as amended, a Silver Star is awarded to the following named officers and enlisted men: George A. JOHNSON, Captain Company, "D", 13th Armored Regiment.  For Gallantry in Action.  During the period January 21 to 23, 1943, Captain JOHNSON distinguished himself in action against an armed enemy in the vicinity of Ousseltia, Tunisia.  The personal example set by Captain JOHNSON during this engagement in leading his company against the enemy contributed much to the success of the operation.  All through the operation, Capt. JOHNSON directed the fire and movements of platoons in such manner that their maximum effectiveness was always obtained.  On one occasion, the example set by Captain JOHNSON in firing at an enemy tank after he had to borrow ammunition from another vehicle gave his men the inspiration to carry the engagement to a successful conclusion (Medal No. 19391).  On this occasion, the Silver Star was awarded to 29 other officers and enlisted men besides Captain JOHNSON, an Oak Leaf Cluster was awarded, in an addition to a Silver Star previously awarded, to one officer an award, Posthumous, of a Silver Star to one officer, award of the Purple Heart was made to one enlisted man, and Citations made to 13 officers and enlisted men.  We wish to congratulate Captain JOHNSON and, from what we have read in the city dailies, no doubt but what he has received the Oak Leaf Cluster by now." 

Aug. 26, 1943 - "Capt. George A. JOHNSON cited for Bravery and Promoted to Rank of Major: Capt. George A. JOHNSON has again received a citation for exception and meritorious service during an engagement with the enemy from May 6 to May 9 in the vicinity of Mateur, Tunisia. Throughout this engagement, he displayed superior leadership and effective, aggressive tactical employment of his company.  When the initial attack was stopped by heavy anti-tank fire, he so capably organized his forces and prepared for the next day's attack that he overran all enemy opposition and advanced well forward into the enemy's strong defense lines.  His outstanding leadership and exceptionally well executed attacks, contributed materially to the destruction of the enemy forces.  The courage leadership and devotion to his duty displayed by Captain JOHNSON reflect great credit upon himself and the command and are deserving of the highest praise.  That's the way the citation reads.  Mrs. JOHNSON, who is making her home here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.D. INGRAM, also informs us that her husband has been promoted to the rank of Major, for which he is to be congratulated."

June 14, 1944 - "Our whole community received a shock Friday evening when the following telegram was received by Mrs. George JOHNSON: "The Secretary of the War desires me to express his deepest regret that your husband, Major George A. JOHNSON, was killed in action on the 25th day of May in Italy. Letter follows. The Adjutant General". Yes, we were all shocked immensely. This was Kinmundy’s first death in the war. How we have escaped thus far has been nothing more than a miracle. Every person in the community felt this shock and are sympathizing with the bereaved family for every family has some boy or girl participating in this war and they know not when they might receive a like message from the War or Navy Department. We claimed Major JOHNSON as one of our boys because he moved his family here just before he was called into service. And this has been his home ever since. Though, there are 2 other communities which can lay claim to him namely Harrisburg, where he was reared, and Windsor, where he taught school preceding his induction. Nevertheless, he was a good soldier and all these communities are mighty proud to claim him. George, the son of Mr. and Mrs. W.T. JOHNSON, was born in Saline Co. on March 21, 1912, and died at the age of 32 years, 2 months, and 1 day. He graduated from the Harrisburg High School with the class of ‘30, and graduated with honors from the University of Illinois with the class of ‘35. He taught a year in Vocational Agriculture at McNabb, Ill., and 5 terms at the schools in Windsor in a like position until he was called into service. On June 3, 1935 he married Miss Lucille INGRAM of this city, and they had 3 children: Jimmy 8, Nancy 6, and Joyce 4. While attending the U. of I. he enrolled in Reserve Officers Training and upon graduation was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves. In 1939 he was elevated to the Rank of First Lieutenant. He was called to duty on March 28, 1941, and left for overseas on May 10, 1942 landing in Ireland. From there, he was sent to Africa and then to Italy. He was advanced to Captain in Dec. 1942, and to Major in July 1943. He had been in the thick of the fighting in North Africa and then in Italy. While serving in the Tunisian Front he was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. During the period of Jan. 21 to 24, 1943, he distinguished himself in action against an armed enemy, and led his company against the enemy contributed much to the success of the operation. On one occasion, the example he set was by firing at an enemy tank after he had to borrow ammunition from another vehicle gave his men the inspiration to carry the engagement to a successful conclusion. It was during this campaign that he received a citation for exceptional and meritorious service. In May 1943 he received a wound in the right hand from a shell fragment which sent him to a hospital for a week. On May 9, 1943, he received another citation and the following month received the Purple Heart. Major JOHNSON was rather fortunate in having a brother, 1st Lt. Joseph JOHNSON, in his regiment, and although they were several miles apart, they did manage to see one another quite often. Another brother, 1st Lt. Robert JOHNSON is with the Army Air Corps in New Guinea. Three brothers-in-law are also in the service, namely Lt. Col. William C. INGRAM, Army Air Corps, stationed in Idaho; Ray H. INGRAM, Ph 1 c, U.S.N., now stationed in Casa Blanca; and Louis C. INGRAM, Ph 2 c at the present time a patient in a hospital in Long Island. Besides the immediate family and the 2 brothers, he leaves his parents, who are living in Beltsville, Md., 2 brothers, Cressie at home, and Dan, also of Boltsville, and 1 sister, Verda, a nurse in the Garfield Hospital, Washington, D.C. Truly, this man was a soldier, giving his last full measure of devotion for his country. And we feel as though he did not die in vain. He was a good Christian man. Although, he retained his membership in the Ledford Baptist Church of Harrisburg, he was always more than willing to work along side of his faithful companion in any church or community in which he resided. Memorial Services will be held in Kinmundy High School June 25th."

June 29, 1944 - "A beautiful memorial service was held Sunday afternoon in the local High School Gymnasium in honor of Major George A. JOHNSON, who was killed in action in Italy on May 25th.  The communities of Windsor, Harrisburg, Urbana and Kinmundy, were represented.  "Sometime We'll Understand" and "Take My Life and Let it Be" (Major JOHNSON's favorite hymn) were sung by Mrs. O.E. GARRETT and Mrs. J.N. VALLOW, with Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON at the instrument.  "Sleep, Soldier Boy, Sleep" was sung by Mr. Leo Bennett of Windsor with his sister, Mrs. EDWARDS at the piano.  The prayer was offered by Rev. George KELLY, pastor of the local Christian Church.  The life history was read by Mr. J.H. DUNSCOMB, Principal of the Windsor Community High School.  The oration was given by Rev. Otho WILLIAMS, Pastor of the Baptist Church of Dorisville and a lifelong friend of Major JOHNSON.  Remarks were made by Mr. Harry TAYLOR, who for the past 48 years has been principal of the Harrisburg Township High School, and under whom Major JOHNSON graduated.  Dr. Robert GRAHAM, Head of Pathology and Animal Hygiene of the University of Illinois, with whom Major JOHNSON was very closely associate during his four years in the University was present by begged to be excused from saying anything as he said, "I just can't say a thing on this occasion without choking up.  George was one of my best friends."  The members of the American Legion were present and gave their ritualistic ceremony of Salute to the Dead and Sounding Taps.  Major JOHNSON's Sunday School Class from the Windsor Christian Church attended the services in a body.  Among this group was Lt. Fred RYHERD a pilot of a Mitchell bomber, who is home on leave after completing 61 missions over Italy.  Lt. RYHERD was a next door neighbor to Mr. and Mrs. JOHNSON, in Windsor and he told friends that he had talked with Major JOHNSON in April. Truly, Major JOHNSON lead on exemplary and true Christian life.  Rev. WILLIAMS, his boyhood chum, spoke thusly of him, as did Mr. Harry TAYLOR and Mr. J.H. DUNSCOMB.   Dr. GRAHAM told us the same thing.  And these words were also assured in a letter received by Mrs. JOHNSON from the Major's Commanding Officer, who was also a close friend.  Words cannot be found that express the heartfelt sympathy of this community for the bereaved family.  Flags within the city were flown at half mast during the services because their hearts were heavy laden, as they, too, have boys and girls in the service.  Everyone showed their respect by helping out whereever they could.  The body of Major JOHNSON lies resting in an American Cemetery in Italy, and after the war is over, the family has been promised, if at all possible, it will be returned home for interment."  (A list of those attending from out-of-town was included.)   Card of Thanks: We wish to thank all of our many friends for the comforting words, letters, and cards and the beautiful flowers since we have received word of the loss of our dear husband and father.  May God Bless everyone of you.  Lucille, Jimmie, Nancy and Joyce Johnson."

August 5, 1948 - "Mjr. George A. JOHNSON Buried in Arlington" - Mrs. Lucille JOHNSON, of Windsor, and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. I.D. INGRAM, of this city, spent last week in Washington, D.C. with relatives.  while there she witness the burial of the casketed remains of her husband, Major George A. JOHNSON in Arlington National Cemetery.  Major JOHNSON was killed in action May 25, 1944 in Italy."
 

  Harold W. Kleiss

(V-272e) Harold W. Kleiss

"The Kinmundy Express"

July 23, 1942 - "Harold KLEISS and Harry HEADLEY left Tuesday for East St. Louis where they were inducted into the U.S. Armed Forces."

July 30, 1942 - "Harold KLEISS left Tuesday morning for Scott Field to be inducted into the Armed Forces."

Feb. 4, 1943 - "Wilson School: Pvt. Harold KLEISS of North Carolina came Saturday to spend a week with home folks."

March 18, 1943 - "Promoted: Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS received word from their son, Harold, last week stating that he had been promoted to Corporal.  He is stationed in North Carolina.  Congratulations to you Harold." 

July 8, 1943 - "Cpl. Harold KLEISS of N.C. came Monday for a 10 day visit with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and family."

Aug. 26, 1943 - "Misses Mildred and Helen KLEISS have returned after visiting in North Carolina with their brother, Cpl. Harold W. KLEISS."

Nov. 4, 1943 - "Cpl. Harold KLEISS of North Carolina is enjoying a 15 day furlough here."

Dec. 30, 1943 - "Cpl. Harold KLEISS, who is in South Carolina, sent the g.m. and I a box of my own special brand of chocolates.  I believe that was the only present I received, but we didn’t expect any from you boys and girls.  You just keep right on doing the good work you are doing and that will be present enough. The dearest card received was from Guin and Millie, which had their pictures on it.  A card was received  from Lt. and Mrs. John SHAFFER, of Nebraska, with their pictures too.  Naturally these cards will be laid up among the records and archives of the editorial mansion." 

Apr. 13, 1944 - "Word has been received that Pvt. George MEYER is now stationed in Oklahoma and Cpl. Harold KLEISS in Virginia."

Sept. 7, 1944 - "Cpl. Harold W. KLEISS left Monday for his camp in Virginia, after spending his furlough here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and daughters, Mildred and Helen."

Nov. 16, 1944 - "Here’s one from Cpl. Harold KLEISS, who has just landed in England. From the way he writes, he forgot to take any lemons with him. He says: I guess you are beginning to think that I have forgotten all of you. Well, I haven’t. I’ve been rather busy and on the go so much since my furlough, that I haven’t hardly had time to write to the folks. As I guess you know by now, I am somewhere in England. I had a very nice trip across, as I was only seasick one time and that happened to be the very first night of the voyage. I considered myself rather lucky as I had only to look around me and see them "heaving it up" on the deck and over the rail. We are now at our new "home". As to how long we stay here is anybody’s guess. We are quartered in buildings and sleep on a mattress cover filled with wheat straw. That is about all I’m allowed to tell, so will sign off and hit the "straw"."

Jan. 11, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS, residing south of this city, received a telegram from the War Department Monday evening stating that their son, Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, had been seriously wounded in Germany on December 18th.  No further word has reached the family."

Jan. 18, 1945 - "Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS, Died in Belgium December 19th"

"Again the horrors of war has descended upon our community and taken from us another young man whom we had hoped would again take his place in civilian life after this affair was over.  Last week we announced that Sgt. Harold W. KLEISS had been seriously wounded in Germany on December 18th.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS, received that word from the War Department on Monday of last week.  Since that time, they had built up hopes that they would receive some word direct from him telling them of his wounds and for them not to worry that everything was going to be alright.  But that letter never came.  On Monday evening of this week, the parents received another message from the War Department stating that Sgt. Harold died in Belgium from wounds on December 19th.  This was a mighty hard blow to this good family as well as the whole community.  The father has been in ill health the past fall and winter, having suffered an attack of undulant fever.  He has sold off most of his livestock but tried to hold on to just enough so his son would have enough to start farming with when he returned.  Big plans had been made for his return just the same as any parents make for their boys.  But when word like this is received, all plans are null and void and one does not know which way to turn.  We think we know just how these good people feel and everyone in the community are extending their deepest sympathy.  Harold William, son of Fred W. and Dora STOCK KLEISS, was born August 17, 1917, on the present homestead south of Kinmundy.  He attended grade school at Wilson School and was graduated from the local high school with the class of '35.  During his high school career and after finishing high school, he engaged in farming and was pronounced one of our leading young farmers.  He was inducted into the armed services on July 7, 1942, sailed overseas on October 14, 1944.  He was a member of the Field Artillery, Field and Survey Section.  When he sailed overseas, he held the rank of Corporal but soon afterwards was advanced to Sergeant.  Besides his parents, he leaves a twin sister, Helen, and an older sister, Mildred, both at home and an aged grandmother, Mrs. Frank KLEISS, of Pesotum.  An older brother, Merle, a twin to Mildred, died in infancy.  Harold was certainly a good boy and a likeable lad.  He made friends wherever he went.  He was a very devout boy, being raised in the Catholic faith, from which he never swerved. He was a member of St. Philomena's Catholic Church of this city.  Being such a good Christian lade, makes the grief much easier to bear."

(V-334) "This is the first grave of Sergeant Kleiss in the Henri Chappele Cemetery in Belgium.

Photo by Capt. Leo E. Donovan of Springfield, who made a special effort to visit the grave.

May 17, 1945 - "Erect Memorials: Mr. and Mrs. Fred KLEISS and Mr. and Mrs. W.H. HILL have erected beautiful memorials on their family lots in Evergreen Cemetery in honor of their sons, Sgt. Harold KLEISS, who sided of wounds in Belgium on Dec. 19, 1944, and Pvt. William HILL, who was killed in action in Luxembourg, Oct. 7, 1944.  The KLEISS memorial stands in the Catholic Cemetery while the HILL memorial stands on the MERCER lot on the east side of the cemetery.  The next time you visit the cemetery, view these beautiful memorials."

"The Kinmundy Express" - Jan. 15, 1948 - "The Sergeant Comes Home: Sergeant Harold W. KLEISS, Battery A, 307^th Field Artillery Battalion, 78^th Lightning Division, returned home Saturday morning, Jan. 10, 1948, after an absence of three years, three months.  But it was God’s will that he return home in a baggage car in a flag draped casket.  His journey was a long one but he was at home now, among his loved ones and friends.  As C. & E.I. Train number 123 pulled to a stop at the station, the baggageman gently slid the door open, exposing the flag draped box.  This brought tears to the eyes of many of the near 100 relatives, friends, and comrades, who had gathered at the early hour to accord him the utmost respect.  The trainmen very gently unloaded his casketed remains from the baggage car to an awaiting truck.  As the train pulled out, every train employee looked from a door and bowed their heads in respect.  Of course, they did not realize it, but no doubt but what this lad had waved at them while he was riding a gang plow or a corn cultivator as they passed by Sunnyslope Farm.  Sergeant Harold was just like any other farm lad, he always waved at the train crews as they sped by.  After the train had pulled out, an order was given by an officer in charge and six pallbearers stepped forward, lifted the casket from the truck and placed it in the hearse.  The hearse moved slowly toward the home of the parents.  The casket was removed and placed on a bier, and taken into the home.  The boys in olive drab and blue then proceeded the public square where they raised a flag, and then lowered it to half-mast.  This flag floated at half-mast for three days in honor of Sergeant KLEISS.  Sergeant KLEISS lay in state in his home with a burning candle at either end of his flag draped casket, a kneeling bench in front for those who care to offer a prayer for the repose of the soul.  At either end of the casket also stood the colors of the American Legion.  In the background was a large profuse of the prettiest flowers one could ever wish to see.  In reality, this wasn’t his home when he left.  But it was the home of his grandmother.  So it was just as near and dear to him as Sunnyslope Farm.  You see, Harold was a typical farm lad and did a great deal of the farm work.  But after he was called to the colors, the father, mother, and two sisters, kept right on, trying to do their best to keep everything going until he returned.  But in the last summer of 1944, the father contracted undulant fever which rendered him helpless as far as farm work was concerned.  This threw all the work on the two sisters.  They did not mind it in the least.  Their only thought was just to hold things together until Harold returned.  But after receiving that sad message from the War Department, they realized they could not carry on the farm work.  So they had a sale and moved to town to this house which the parents had purchased after the death of the grandmother.  Several days ago after word reached here that Sergeant KLEISS would return home, inasmuch as the church of his father was rather small and certainly could not accommodate the relatives and friends, it was proposed to the family that the funeral services be held in the school gymnasium.  The family consented.  The matter was taken up with the pastor.  He was favorable but had to have the consent of his superiors.  This consent was readily obtained.  In the meantime, the gymnasium caught fire and considerable damage was done to the interior.  But workmen worked like fury to get these necessary repairs done for the funeral.  Less the 24 hours before the funeral hours,  These workmen laid aside their tools, having completed their work enough to make the place look respectable.  At 9:45 o’clock, the remains left the home escorted by members of the American Legion, the family and friends.  The funeral cortege arrived at the gymnasium at 10 o’clock. The procession was met outside the door by the Rev. R. A.B. SCHOMAKER, pastor of St. Philomena’s Church.  After the usual short ceremony he led the procession into the gymnasium and immediately ascended to the improvised altar on the stage where he offered mass.  Although this was an improvised altar, we can truthfully say it looked beautiful.  Fr. SCHOMAKER was assisted at the altar by two lads in their army uniforms, namely, Charles VALLOW and Alva STOCK.  These two lads responded to the request of the family to be Mass Servers.  Harold had worked with them in that capacity on several occasions.  Although it had been serval years since they had done this, they just couldn’t have done better.  Their rhythm was perfect.  During the mass, three songs were sung by Mrs. W.B. VALLOW and Mrs. J.N. VALLOW, namely “Jesus Savior of My Soul”, “Take Me, My Jesus, To Heaven”, and “Face to Face”.  They were accompanied at the organ by Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON.  The gymnasium was filled almost to capacity with relatives and friends.  There was a little standing room left.  All business houses were closed, the school was closed, and people came from neighboring towns.  Most everyone present knew Harold or his family. It was heart rendering to glance over at the audience and see the tear bedecked eyes of several Goldstar mothers and fathers.  We well knew just what they were thinking. The gymnasium is so massive, those in the rear could not hear the mass being said.  The public address system was set up by Earl DOOLEN, over which Fr. SCHOMAKER delivered his sermon.  He did not dwell much on the life of Harold because, as he said, he was such a good boy there just couldn’t be enough good things said about him.  He well knew that this was the first Catholic Funeral several of his listeners had ever attended.  And so he explained at length, the ritual of the church, telling just why this and that was done.  His talk was very enlightening.  The procession left the gymnasium and the cortege winded it’s way to Evergreen Cemetery. The colors and firing squad preceding the hearse, the pallbearers and honorary pallbearers walking on either side of the hearse and other members of the American Legion walking behind the hearse.  At the grave, the regular ritualistic services were read by Fr. SCHOMAKER after which the firing squad fired three volleys.  Taps was sounded by Dwayne HANNA.  The flag was lifted from the casket by two of the pallbearers and presented to Sgt. Steve MITTL, who had escorted the body from Chicago.  Sgt. MITTL then, on behalf of the United States, presented it to the mother.  The casket was then lowered to its final resting place.  Harold William, son of Fred W. and Dora STOCK KLEISS, was born Aug. 17, 1917, on Sunnyslope Farm south of Kinmundy.  He attended Wilson School and was graduated from High School with the class of ‘35.  After his graduation, he engaged in farming and was a very successful young farmer.  He was inducted into the army on July 7, 1942, and spent the most of this army life at various camps in the States, becoming an instructor in his branch of service.  He applied for overseas duty against the wishes of his superior officers and sailed Oct. 14, 1944.  Soon after his landing, he was thrown into combat service, making his way up through France, Holland, Luxembourg, Belgium, and into Germany.  On Dec. 16, Nazi General Gerd VON RUNSTEDT commenced the Battle of the Bulge.   Two days later, Sergeant KLEISS was sent with a detail to an observation post.  They set up headquarters in a two story building.  The Jerries soon located the building and their aim was perfect.  A shrapnel came down through the roof of the building, on down thru the second story and exploded when it reached the first story Sergeant KLEISS happened to be on this floor. A fragment and this shrapnel struck him in the head, rendering him unconscious.  The medics were soon on hand and transported him to a base hospital.  His wound was serious.  The doctors and nurses did everything within their power.  The Catholic Chaplain offered prayers.   But his life ebbed away the following day.  And he was buried in the Henri Chapelle Cemetery in Belgium.  His cross was one of the 17,320 in this cemetery.  This happened just a week before Christmas.  Always before, he had been lucky enough to spend Christmas with homefolks.  But this Christmas homefolks knew it was impossible.  This Christmas happened to be a bleak cold day in this vicinity.  The father arose early to start the fires.  Mother lay in bed.  Both thought of their son.  Father shed a few tears because he knew Harold wanted to be at home and couldn’t Mother shed a few tears wondering if Harold was warm and had plenty to eat.   Neither knew the other was crying their hearts out for their son.  Within a few days, that expected letter did not come.  Nor did it come the next day nor the next.  Then they were just sure something had happened.  Finally on Jan. 8, 1945, the family received the expected telegram stating Harold had been seriously wounded.  It was certainly a hard task to break this  news to this good family.  But it was still harder on Jan. 15^th, just a week later, to deliver to them the telegram announcing his death.  Memorial services were held the following Monday morning.  This did a lot toward consoling the members of the immediate family.  And yet, there was that thought that maybe the War Dept. might, be mistaken and Harold would show up later.  This memorial was just as trying on them as a funeral.  And yet, they realized the hard part was to come.   That was when the other boys returned home after the war.  Of course, they were glad to see all these boys come home again. They were broad-minded.  Yet, that loneliness or longing for their son was evidenced on several occasions.  Many a tear was shed which no one knew about.  Three years has now elapsed since his death.  Time has partially healed Those of us who knew the Sergeant KLEISS, having nothing but the fondest memories of him.  He did no deed which would cause us to have any other kind.  He was certainly a good lad, we would say one of the best.  We know that everyone of us will cherish his memory in our hearts.  Yes, Sergeant KLEISS is now resting beside loved ones, and we know it is a great relief to the father, mother and two sisters to know that he is there.  Some time ago the family had a large stone placed upon the lot in his memory.  They frequently visited this place and placed flowers in front of the stone.  This was satisfying to some extent, and yet, there was a vacancy that existed.  But now it is different, he is there.  Sergeant KLEISS was the first war dead to be returned to Kinmundy.  And the citizens of this community did their utmost toward showing respect to this honored boy as well as extending every courtesy possible to the immediate family.  And it is our intention to pay the same respect for all the lads who are returning to us."

(V-330) "Sergeant Harold W. Kleiss, ASN 36062574, Battery A, 307th Field Artillery Battalion, 78th Lightning Division,

arrives in Kinmundy, his old home town.  Train was met by relatives and friends."

(V-331) Harold W. Kleiss - "The flag draped casket is carried into the home by friends and comrades. 

Left: Earl Doolen, Charles Kline, Dale Wright.  Right: John McCulley, Charles Diss, Ralph Jenkins."

(V-332) Harold W. Kleiss -  "Funeral services are held in the school gymnasium before an improvised altar. 

The Rev. Fr. Schomaker is delivering his sermon to friends of Sergeant Kleiss."

(V-333) Harold W. Kleiss - "The flag draped casket sets above it's final resting place in Evergreen Cemetery. 

The flag was removed and the casket lowered.  Note the beautiful memorial stone."

The Honor Guard with Harold W. Kleiss at his final resting place in Kinmundy.
Clarence Quandt, Charles Kline, Earl Doolen, Charles Diss, Ralph Jenkins, Dale Wright

  Kenneth P. Lacey

"The Farina News" - "Lt. Kenneth P. LACEY was inducted into service at Scott Field May 17, 1942, as aviation cadet and in the reserves until November, when he was to report to Santa Ana, Calif., where he took his basic training and finished basic at Merced, Calif.

    On July 2nd, 1943, he was married to Betty Jane Mahon of Vandalia in the base chapel by a Chaplain.  He was sent to Fort Summer, New Mexico, the latter part of July, where he was commissioned 2nd Lt. on Oct. 1st, 1943.  He took advanced training on B-17's at Roswell, New Mexico, Salt Lake, Utah and Tampa, Fla.  He was sent to Langley Field, Va., until July 4, 1944, when his crew and several other crews took off for Bangor, MA, and a few days later his crew and plane across to England, where he received about four weeks orientation course. 

    On December 18, 1944, he completed his 35 missions over Germany, Italy, and France.  Lt. Lacey returned to the U.S.A. January 24, 1945 and is now in Columbus, Ohio.  During his missions he completed 240 combat hours and holds the Air Medal with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters for meritorious achievement.  He was a member of 3rd Air Division that received a Presidential citation for its bombing in the historic England-Africa Shuttle-bombing of Messer-Schmitt aircraft plants at Regenburg, Germany."

“The Kinmundy Express”

July 15, 1943 - "Kenneth LACEY and Betty MAHON Wed: Miss Betty Jane MAHON became the bride of A c Kenneth LACEY in the chapel at Merced Army Air Base on July 3 by Chaplain ROGERS.  They were accompanied by Mrs. ROGERS, wife of Chaplain and A c Kenneth MURPHY.  The ceremony was read by Chaplain ROGERS.  They were accompanied by Mrs. ROGERS, wife of Chaplain and A/c Kenneth MURPHY.  The bride wore navy and white.  The bridesmaid was dressed in pink.  The groom and his attendant were in dress uniform.  The bride is a graduate of Vandalia H.S. in 1940, and A c Kenneth of Farina H.S. in 1939.  Mrs. LACEY has an apartment near Merced and will live there until he is moved for his advanced training, when she will accompany him whenever he is stationed.  Kenneth is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton LACEY, formerly of Meacham, but now of Vandalia."

Oct. 14, 1943 - "Receives Wings: Lt. and Mrs. Kenneth LACEY, in company with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Milton LACEY, and daughter, Nancy of Vandalia, spent a short time here last Thursday morning.  Kenneth received his wings and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant on Oct. 1st, at Fort Sumner, New Mexico.  Congratulations."

Feb. 1, 1945 - "Lt. Kenneth S. LACEY Wins Air Medal with Five Clusters Piloting "Lady Satan": Lt. Kenneth S. LACEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton LACEY and husband of Mrs. Betty Jane LACEY, Vandalia, recently passed a milestone in his flying career from an Eighth Air Force bomber station in England.  Serving as pilot of the B-17 Flying Fortress "Lady Satan", Lt. LACEY, 23, recently completed 240 combat hours.  Traversing approximately 35,000 miles, he has flown his bomber through severe enemy opposition to drop more than 175,000 pounds of high explosives on Nazi industrial and military installations deep in Germany.  Lt. LACEY entered service in the AAF in May 1942 after graduating from Farina H.S.  His father is assistant superintendent of the state penal farm here, and his wife, Betty, lives at 1513 St. Louis Ave.  An official army communication direct to The Union from England states: Lt. LACEY, who holds the Air Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters for 'meritorious achievement', is a member of the 452d Bomb Group, a unit of the Third Air Division, the division that received a Presidential citation for its now historic England-Africa shuttle bombing of Messerchmitt aircrafts plants at Regensburg, Germany.  As allied ground forces moved into Germany, the Eighth Air Force stepped up the intensity of its attacks on the Reich.  The Illinois airman flew on many of these bombing assaults against communication centers synthetic oil refineries and factories producing heavy tanks and trucks.  Lt. LACEY considers an attack against synthetic oil refineries at Merseburg, Germany, to be his toughest mission.  "Flak over the target knocked out two of our engines and we were forced to drop out of formation, throwing out all equipment not necessary to keep us airborne", he said.  "The other groups were beginning to pass us and soon we were trailing behind the whole armada of Fortress."  "Luckily for us", continued Lt. LACEY, "a P51 Mustange on the lookout for straggler, saw our predicament and escorted us home.  Our "little friend" left us at the English coast and when we landed, there was just enough gasoline left in our tanks to fill a cigarette lighter."  - Vandalia Union."

June 26, 1947 - "Flies Relief Supplies: Lawson Field, Ft. Benning, Ga.: 1st Lt. Kenneth P. LACEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton S. LACEY of Kinmundy, Ill., serving as a transport pilot with 9th Air Force at Lawson Field, Ga., returned to the base late last Sunday night after flying an emergency mission to flood stricken Ottumawa, Iowa.  the lieutenant was flying a C-82 "flying Boxcar" which was ordered to Scott field, Ill. to pick up two giant Diesel generators needed by the hospital of the inundated city.  The mission was completed in two flights after flying continuously from Saturday at 7:30 p.m., when the plane left Lawson Field, until it returned to the base Sunday night.  In the crew were Lt. LACEY, Lt. Jams Perry, Sgt. Marion Malone, and T. Sgt. Grady Detion, all members of the 75th Troop Carrier Squadron."

Aug. 21, 1958 – “Major Kenneth LACEY killed in plane crash Wednesday: An Air Force Major, Kenneth P. LACEY, of Kinmundy, was among 10 U.S. servicemen killed Wednesday in the crash of a four engine serial tanker near St. Vith, Belgium.  The plan was on a routine flight from Germany to it’s home base at Sculthorpe, Norfolk, England.  He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton LACEY who live on farm in Meacham twp. about 6 miles east of Kinmundy.  Major LACEY, 37, entered the service in 1942.  He had been stationed at Sculthorpe, R.A.F. Base near Norfolk, England, since March 1957.  Born in Meacham twp., he graduated from Farina H.S. in 1939.  On July 2, 1943, he married Betty Jane MAHON, Vandalia.  Mrs. LACEY and her two children, Candyce Lynn, 11, and Johnnie Keith, 8, are living at the base in England.”

Sept. 4, 1958 – “Funeral services for Major Kenneth LACEY will be held in the Farina Gymnasium Friday and interment will be made in Elder Cemetery.  He was stationed at Sculthorpe R.A.F Base, Norfolk, England, and was one of 10 on an KB50 Ariel tanker which crashed at St. Vith, Belgium, Aug. 13.  All men were killed.  Mrs. LACEY and her 2 children, who were living at the base, arrived in Farina last week.  The children are attending school and making their home with Mr. and Mrs. Hugh LACEY.  They intend to make Farina their home for the present.”

  Harold Lambird

(V-339) Harold Lambird

"The Kinmundy Express"

Sept. 17, 1942 - "In the Service: Harold LAMBIRD"

Apr. 6, 1944 - Meacham: PFC Harold LAMBIRD is at home on a furlough. He has been serving in the Southwest Pacific for the past 18 months.

March 22, 1945 - "Dies of wounds: Yesterday Mr. and Mrs. Walter LAMBIRD of Meacham twp, received a message of the death of their son, PFC Harold LAMIBRD, who died March 9, of wounds received in Iwo Jima.  Harold was a Marine.  Complete story next week."

March 29, 1945 - PFC Harold LAMBIRD, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter LAMBIRD, Dies of Wounds on Iwo Jima: As announced last week, Mr. and Mrs. Walter LAMBIRD of Meacham twp., received a message from the War Dept. stating their son, PFC Harold LAMBIRD, had died from wounds received in action in Iwo Jima, 9 March. He was in the Marine Corps. Again, our hearts go out to this good family and we extend sympathy in your loss of this noble lad. We know that he was a good boy and we know that he will be sadly missed, like many other lads, when the rest of our boys come marching home. Harold, son of Walter and Minnie MERRITT LAMBIRD, was born Dec. 13, 1921 in Warrenburg, Ill. When just a small lad, he moved with his parents to the present homestead in Meacham twp. Here he acquired his education in Booker School. After finishing school, he helped his father with his farm work for a while and then went to Champaign where he found employment in a foundry. He enlisted in the armed services July 31, 1942 and was sent to the Southwest Pacific Theater in Oct. of 1942. There he fought on Guada canal, Tarwawa, and other islands. In March 1944, he was sent home on a month’s furlough. After his furlough, he was sent to North Carolina, where he remained for 4 months. He was then shipped back to the Southwest Pacific Theater in time to help take Saipan. And died of wounds received in Iwo Jima March 9, 1945. Besides his parents, he leaves the following brothers and sisters: Carl LAMBIRD of Madison, Ill.; Leonard LAMBIRD of St. Peter; Geneva HAYS of Wichita, Kansas; Pauline and George at home. Also an aged grandmother, Mrs. Cora MERRITT of Champaign. Thus closes the life history of another lad who gave his full measure of devotion for his country. His memory will linger on.

"The casketed remains of Marine Corporal Harold Lambird leaving the family home, under military escort for the Methodist Church Sunday, where funeral services were held."

Apr. 15, 1948 - Last Funeral Rites Held Here Sunday for Marine Hero PFC Harold LAMBIRD: The casketed remains of Marine Cpl.  Harold LAMBIRD arrived here last Thursday night on I.C. Train No. 29, accompanied by Marine Cpl. CLARK.   They were taken to the home of the parents in this city where they remained until the funeral hour.  Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon from the Methodist Church Rev. Orlando BRAKEMEYER, officiating.  Interment was in Evergreen Cemetery with full military honors.  The flag on the public square, as well as those throughout the business district and in front of many homes throughout the city, floated at half-staff on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  The church was filled almost to capacity and a large profuse of flowers symbolized the sympathy extended to the immediate family of this lad who laid down his life for his country.  Harold, son of Walter and Minnie MERRITT LAMBIRD, was born Dec. 13, 1921, at Warrensburg, Ill.  When just a small child, he moved with his parents to their home in Meacham Township.  Here he grew to manhood, attaining his education in the Booker School.  He helped his father with the farm work and then went to Champaign, Illinois, where he found employment in a factory.  Harold enlisted in the U.S. Marines on July 31, 1942.  In October 1942, he was sent to the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations.  Here he saw much action on Guada Canal and Tarwawa.  In March 1944, he was returned to the states and granted a 30 day furlough, which was spent here with his parents.  After the expiration of his furlough, he was sent to North Carolina where he remained for four months.  He was then sent back to the Southwest Pacific.  His last assignment was in the ragged campaign of Iwo Jima.  Here his conduct reached a high point when he became No. 1 gunner of machine gun squad, taking the place of men who were casualties before him.  He remained at this post for several days under the heaviest of rifle, machine gun and mortar fire, doing a difficult job with never a complaint.  On March 6^th, he was wounded by rifle fire and was evacuated to the Hospital ship, U.S.S. Samaritan.  The ship’s chaplain, Clarence F. CROUSER, in a letter to the bereaved family, written 3 days after Harold’s passing had this to say “Undoubtedly you were informed by our government of the death of your son, Harold, on this ship.  After his injury upon the field of battle, he was transferred to this Naval Hospital Ship for treatment.  Our doctors are among the best in the profession and they did everything possible to save his life.  Our nurses and corpsmen did much to make him comfortable during his last hours.  Human efforts failed and God called him to his eternal home at 11 a.m. on March 9^th.  I was with him shortly before his death and offered a prayer.  Our prayers have been with him all during his suffering and with his dear ones at home, that they might be strengthened in the hours of affliction.  Cpl. LAMBIRD was laid to rest in the Marine Cemetery in Guam.  Besides his parents, he is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Carl LAMBIRD of East St. Louis; Leonard LAMBIRD of Vandalia; Mrs. Geneva HAYS of Kinmundy; Pauline and George at home; and an aged grandmother, Mrs. Cora MERRITT of Champaign; six nieces and four nephews.

  Harry O. Mulvaney

“The Kinmundy Express”

April 12, 1945  - “PFC Harry MULVANEY Killed in Action:  PFC Harry O. MULVANEY, 20, was killed in action in Germany on March 19, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alf MULVANEY near Bement, learned from the War Dept. Tuesday.  He was an infantryman.  Private MULVANEY had been wounded in action in France twice - on Sept. 30 and on Nov. 8.  He entered service last January and went to Africa in June.  The youth was born Sept. 24, 1925, in Kinmundy and went to the Bement vicinity with his parents about 15 years ago.  Besides his parents, he leaves 5 sisters and 4 brothers, most of them younger than he is.  Private MULVANEY did not attend high school, but helped his father on the farm before entering the service.”

Garland Lacey Norman

"The Kinmundy Express"  

Aug. 3, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. Jesse NORMAN of Meacham twp. received word Monday evening from their daughter-in-law, Mrs. Garland NORMAN of Indianapolis, Ind. stating that she had just received a message from the War Dept. announcing the death of Garland, which occurred July 13th at St. Lo, France. He was killed in action. This was a great shock to this good family as well as to the neighbors and to his many friends. Garland was a very likable chap and was loved by everyone who knew him. The heartfelt sympathy of the entire community goes out to his good family. Garland Lacey NORMAN was born in Meacham twp., Aug. 18, 1910. He attended the Lacey School and graduated from Farina High School with the class of ‘28. He finished one term of school at Normal and one term at the Univ. of Ill. In 1931, he graduated from the Lima Linotype School in Lima, Ohio. At the time of his enlistment, he was employed by the Rytx Printing Co. of Indianapolis, Ind. He married Miss Louise WILLIAMS of Indianapolis on Dec. 20, 1941. He entered the army on June 4, 1941, was temporarily released on Oct. 3, 1941, recalled on March 3, 1942 and was shipped overseas Oct. 1, 1943, landing in Northern Ireland, where stationed until a month before the invasion of France, when he was stationed in England. He went with the 1st Division in the invasion of France and was a member of the 12th Field Artillery Battalion. He participated in several major battles and was killed in action on July 13th in the battle of St. Lo. Besides his wife and parents, he leaves 4 sisters, Frances, Helen, Dorothy, and Louise and 1 brother, Charles. In all probability, memorial services will be held as soon as arrangements can be completed."

Jan. 16, 1948 - "Cpl. G. NORMAN arrived this A.M".: "A flag draped casket containing the remains of Cpl. Garland Lacey NORMAN, arrived here this morning on C. & E.I. Train No. 123.  It was met by the immediate family, several friends and members of the Farina American Legion.  It was taken to the Stonecipher Funeral Home in Farina and then to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse NORMAN in Meacham twp.  Services will be held Saturday afternoon 1 o’clock from the Methodist Church in Farina.   Interment will be made in the Elder Cemetery under the auspices of the Farina American Legion.  Cpl. NORMAN was killed in action July 13, 1944, at St. Lo, France."

"The Farina News"

"Memorial Services for Garland NORMAN held Sunday" - "Final tribute to Cpl. Garland NORMAN, who made the supreme sacrifice on the field of battle was paid by local citizens last Sunday in Memorial services held at the Methodist Church.  The American Legion Post of Kinmundy had charge of the military honors and ministers of the four Farina churches took part in the services.  Rev. C.L. HILL delivered the address which was filled with comforting words to the bereaved family and sorrowing community.  Our memories of this thirty-five year old soldier, who gave his life in the battle of St. Lo, France, are not clouded by any disturbing thoughts but only goodness which comes from the living for others.  This writer had been closely associated with Garland on several occasions and while in his company his thoughts were for my comforts and pleasures.  This was more than true in his family life.  He saw only the beauties of life and in the midst of war his character and disposition was not changed.  A lasting memorial firmly implanted in our minds will be "It was a privilege  to have known this fine man and soldier".  We know Garland would not want us to darken our lives with sorrow in grieving his passing, but to carry on in the spirit in which he lived to make this a better world for others."

"Life Sketch of Cpl. Garland NORMAN: Cpl. Garland Lacey NORMAN, son of Jesse NORMAN and wife, Ollie (LACEY), was born in Marion Co., Aug. 18, 1909.  His mother died when he was about 4 years of age.  On Apr. 5, 1916, his father was married to Lena SPORLEDER, who did all that was humanly possible to take the place of his own mother, and the devotion and respect he held for her was shown in the years after he was grown and had left the family home.  He attended the rural schools, later graduating from the Farina High School with the class of 1928.  He later attended Normal for one term and also the University of Illinois for that length of time.  He graduated from the Lima Lintype School, Lima, Ohio in 1931.  At the time of his enlistment in the armed forces he was employed by the Rytx Printing Co., of Indianapolis, Ind.  On June 4, 1941, he entered the service and was released October 3, 1941, later being recalled on March 3, 1942.  While in Camp McCoy, Wis., he was baptized by the Army Chaplain, and had his membership transferred to Indianapolis, where his wife is a member.  In October 1943, he left for overseas duty, being stationed in Ireland, later being moved to England.  He was with the 2nd division, a member of the 12th Field Artillery Battalion, when they landed in France.  He took part in several major battles and gave his life in defense of his country on July 13, 1944, in the battle of St. Lo, France.  He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Louise, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse NORMAN, 4 sisters, Frances, Dorothy, Ouise at home and Mrs. Helen DOMAS, and 1 brother, Charles, besides several uncles, aunts, cousins and a host of close friends and neighbors.

The Blue and Gold

There's a blue star in a window

A gold start right next door,

There's a bond between two neighbors

That was never there before.

One home prays for a sailor

So many miles away,

The other for a soldier boy

Who went away - to stay.

There are blue stars in Old Glory

That they both were fighting for

There are gold stars in the heavens

That shine on through peace and war.

May the day be not far distant

When this cruel war shall cease

And we pray, Dear Lord, we soon shall know,

An everlasting peace

Dear God we place them in they care

Each one in thine arms enfold

And give us strength to carry on

For our stars - the blue and gold."

  John Frederick "Fred" Powell

"The Pantagraph" (Bloomington, IL), - Jan. 6, 1945 - Cooksville - Mr. and Mrs. Elmer POWELL, who were notified some time ago that their son, John Frederick POWELL, Seaman 2nd Class, was missing in action as of Oct. 26, received a letter from the Navy department Jan. 2 stating that he was killed in action.  His remains had been recovered and he was buried at sea in the Asiatic area.  He was born near Alma, July 23, 1920.  Besides his parents, he is survived by 6 brothers and sisters: Alva Roy and James of Lexington; Bryan of Colfax; Dorothea of Eureka; Emmit of LeRoy; Henry and Elsie of Salem.  One brother died in infancy.  Fred was a member of the Baptist Church of Alma."

  Carl Edwin Purcell

(V-376) Private Carl Purcell at Camp Polk Jan 25, 1942

(V-32) Carl Purcell, Dwight Purcell (their father), and John D. Purcell - July 1943.

(V-130) Carl Edwin Purcell

"The Kinmundy Express"

Dec. 9, 1943 - "The first letter is from Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, more commonly known as "Percy", who used to know his way around Kinmundy, although he did live at Alma. He is now learning how to get around in merry old England. He says: I enjoy getting your paper a lot and thanks a lot considering we boys. I never read your paper before entering the service but no I read each copy completely. Your Zatso column is very interesting. I have friends from many states that read and enjoy it a lot. Your new letter column is a big booster to us. It lets each other boy know the approximate location of his friend. Hoping for an early victory and we all get home again. I sign off."

March 23, 1944- "Here’s one from Sgt. Carl PURCELL, asking us to do him a favor.  We are always willing to oblige the soldier boys and we will have to ask the OWI and find out what can be done about this situation.   He says: I still reside in England and wish to send my thanks for the paper I receive often.  I wish to make a suggestion of request for your paper one week.  Why not put in the boys army Post office number that are overseas.  We all have friends in different places and we never know but what they may be our neighbors.  By knowing their APO and going thru channels we can locate them many times.  Just think of the home town boys here in England and I haven’t seen one of them and do not have their APO’s except for 2.  Only a suggestion and thanks for the trouble."

Aug. 24, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL of Alma, received a telegram from the War Dept. last week announcing their son, Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, had been seriously wounded in action in France, on Aug. 1st. A little encouragement was received Thursday when the family received a letter from Sgt. Carl dated Aug. 6th. Then on Friday they received another letter written by him on Aug. 10th saying he was in a hospital in England. He did not tell them the nature of his wound but says he was slightly injured and it was nothing to worry about. That he was living the best since going overseas. We are all consoled in the fact the Sgt. Carl was able to write these letters himself which gives evidence that his wound could have been much worse, and that he was feeling good enough to write. Naturally the family will not rest easy until such time when they get the full particulars."

Feb. 8, 1945 - "Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL of Alma, received word from the War Department Tuesday announcing that their son, Sgt. Carl PURCELL, was reported missing in action on Jan. 18th in Belgium.  It will be remembered that Sgt. PURCELL was wounded some time ago and it has not been very long since he was released from the hospital and returned to the front lines.  This good family has the sympathy of the entire community and everyone is hoping and praying that Carl will turn up O.K. in the near future."

July 15, 1948 - "Body of Sgt. Carl PURCELL Arriving Here Tonight: "the body of Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, of Alma, will arrive here at 10:54 tonight on the Illinois Central Train No. 29.  He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight C. PURCELL, of Alma.  Sgt. PURCELL was killed in action Jan. 18, 1945 and was a member of the 3rd Armored Reconnoissance Division.  Funeral services will be held from the Alma Methodist church Sunday, July 18, with Rev. CURTIS, officiating and Rev. HAYS, officiating.  The body will lay in state at the Linton Funeral Home in Kinmundy till Saturday afternoon when it will be moved to the home of his parents in Alma.  Burial will be made in the Alma Cemetery under the auspices of the Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion."

(V-341b) Carl Edwin Purcell funeral

"The Kinmundy Express" - March 1, 1945 - "Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, of Alma, Killed in Action: Again our community as well as our neighboring community of Alma received quite a blow when a message was received from the War Dept. Monday morning by Mr. and Mrs. Dwight PURCELL, residing south of Alma, stating "Sgt. Carl E. PURCELL, who was previously reported missing in action, reports now received states he was killed in action 18 January in Belgium. It will be remembered that the parents received a telegram on Feb. 6 stating that Sgt. Carl was missing in action on Jan. 18. Naturally the family, as well as his friends, had hoped and prayed that he would turn up safe and sound in the near future. But now all these hopes have faded and this good family is grieving the loss of their son and brother. And to these relatives we extend our heartfelt sympathy. Sgt. Carl Edwin PURCELL, known to his most intimate friends as ‘Percy’, was the oldest son of Dwight C. and Carrie BROOM PURCELL. He was born on a farm just south of Alma, April 28, 1915. He attended the grade school in Alma and graduated from Alma H.S. in 1930, being valedictorian of his class. Then he attended the Salem H.S., graduating with the class of ‘32. After completing his high school education, he attended Southern Illinois Normal Univ. at Carbondale a few terms. He gave up his studies here to come back home and assist his father with the farming and fruit growing. He was appointed extra mail carrier from the Alma office and served in this capacity during the winter months. A short while before his induction into the armed forces, he was employed by the Texas Pipe Line Co, of Salem. He entered the army on June 17, 1941, and was trained at various camps in this country. He sailed overseas on Sept. 3, 1943, landing in England where he remained until crossing over into France. On Aug. 1, 1944, while in France, he was wounded in the right forearm, which necessitated him being sent back to England where he spent 3 months in the hospital. For this wound, he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for Gallantry in Action. After 3 months, he was sent back into action as a member of the 3rd Armored Division, Reconnaissance Battalion and was killed in action Jan. 18, 1945. Sgt. Carl was a faithful member of the Alma Methodist Church. He was a good lad and was liked by everyone. We are sure that his spirit now rests in peace in that better land. Besides the grief stricken parents, Carl leaves 1 brother, Sgt. John D. PURCELL, now in the Philippines; 4 sisters, Rhea GREGG of Alma; Pauline DOOLEN of Seattle, Wash.; Maxine and Marilyn, at home; and his 2 grandmothers, Mrs. Belle BROOM and Mrs. Mattie PURCELL, both of Alma. It is possible that memorial services will be held a little later, but not now, due to illness in the immediate family."

“The Kinmundy Express” – July 5, 1945

Carl Purcell's temporary grave in Luxe

"Clyde Thomas visited Carl Purcell's temporary grave on about Feb. 15, 1945, laid flowers and took some photos of the grave and cemetery.  It seems that he flew all the way from where he was stationed with the 12th Tac Recon Squadron at Giraumont, France to do this."   (Info. and photos shared by Paul Hosmer.)

Arial view of U.S. Military Cemetery in Hamm, Luxembourg taken from plane that Clyde Thomas flew to pay respects.

This is a photograph of Clyde Thomas in the plane that he probably flew to visit Carl Purcell's grave, and take the previous areal photograph of the American Cemetery in Luxembourg around Feb. 15, 1945.

  Omer Readnour

"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill. - Dec. 12, 1918 - "

"Another name was added to the Kinmundy Roll of Fame of those who gave their lives in the cause of Democracy, when word came Wednesday morning announcing the death of Omer READNOUR at Camp Taylor, Kentucky.  He had been in camp since last July and about 2 months ago suffered an attack of "the flu".  A relapse resulted in pneumonia, culminating in his death Wednesday morning.  His death came as a shock to his relatives and friends as word from his bedside Tuesday stated there was no cause for alarm.  F.W. KILLIE went to Camp Taylor in response to a message announcing his illness and accompanied the body home.  Omer possessed all the traits of sterling manhood and was an excellent example of sturdy striving to success.  Although he has not been permitted to get into the fray across the sea, his name will go down in the annals of Kinmundy as among the honored dead, in the world struggle for right."

"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill. - Dec. 19, 1918 - "Pay Last Respects to Soldier Boy; Funeral of Omer READNOUR Held Sunday Afternoon Under Military Escort; The seating capacity of the M.E. Church was taxed to it's limit to accommodate the large number of friends who came to pay their last respects and homage to their honored hero, Omer READNOUR, who had given his life in democracy's cause, at Camp Taylor, Kentucky.  The funeral services were the most impressive that had been witnessed here for many years.  With due military honors as befitted the late life of the deceased, the body was borne to its last resting place by six of his late brothers in-arms, Arthur STOCK, Clifford JACKSON, John FORD, and Bryan ALLMON of Alma, Arthur HOWELL and Will MILNE of Farina.  These were escorted by a guard of honor, consisting of Color Bearers, Clay SIMER and Pleasant ROBNETT, Lieut. J.R. MAHAN, John MAHAN, Corporal Gene RINEHART, and Hugh COUGHLIN.  In addition to these, the body was attended by members of Hicks Post No. 641, G.A.R., Spanish War Veterans, who composed a firing squad, I.O.O.F, Rebekah, and A.F. and A.M. Lodges.  He had been a faithful member of the three latter fraternal organizations.  The services were conducted by Rev. T.A. MARTIN and special music was furnished by a mixed quartette, consisting of Mrs. GRISSOM, Mrs. HUGGINS, W.S. PRUETT and W.W. NEIL.  At the grave, the Spanish-American War Veteran's firing squad consisting of J.T. BROWN, I.D. INGRAM, Chas. and Frank CRAIG fired the customary salute to the dead.  The following tribute was read at the church by Mrs. A.E.W. PRUETT: Omer READNOUR, son of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. READNOUR was born in Kinmundy, Ill., Sept. 25, 1895, and passed away at Camp Taylor, Ky., Dec. 11, 1918, age 23 years, 2 months, and 16 days.  Thus begins and ends the record of a life lived among us.  We have no desire to exaggerate or eulogize, beyond the truth, any life with whom we have associated socially or in a business way.  We only wish to make statements in which the public wilt bear us out, as true to life.  My first association with Omer was when he started to school in primary grade, when I was the teacher.  Pleasant memories still linger of a small boy, who was obedient, kind, polite and honorable in every way, and who did his best in every way.  As he grew in years, this record never changed and he constantly advanced in his work.  Omer's name was a synonym for all that was true and honorable in a business way, always cheerful, willing and interested for his employer.  Kind and helpful in the home of his grandparents and aunt, who had kept and cared for him almost from infancy, and in return for this kindness, after he had grown older, he gladly shared with them his wages.  He entered Mr. KILLIE's store as a clerk and helper over seven years ago, and has made an enviable record for faithfulness, fidelity, honesty and efficiency, but only for his employer, who today is crushed.  In the loss of so true and companiable, a clerk and friend, but the whole community is sorrowing for the passing from us, of so young and useful a life and for the sunny smile he brought into our homes when delivering goods.  He had affiliated himself with the I.O.O.F., Rebekah and Masonic lodges, but was particularly partial to the Rebekahs.  He was a member of Class No. 14 of the M.E.S.S., but his life does not end here.  June 23, he entered military training at Camp Taylor, Ky, for the defense of his own loved America, the emancipation of the world and religious freedom.  In the camp, too, he was respected and loved.  I quote from a letter written by a comrad to the sister and family.  "Tuesday afternoon I slipped away from my work and went over to see him.  He seemed so glad to see me and I know he was.  He was so weak he could hardly talk, but looked so sweet and peaceful.  When I turned to go, he reached out his hand and said, "Well, Lowell, let's shake hands, for it may be the last time for a long time."

"Dearest Omer, though hast left us;

And our loss we deeply feel, But he put our trust in Jesus;

He our wounded hearts can heal.

Omer and I spent many happy hours together."

Omer gave his life his life for his country and his God.  We love to do honor to the brave men, from the ones who fought for our Independence all down the years.  A few of the Civil War veterans are still with us.  God bless the boys of '61 to '65.  We will not soon forget what they did for us.  The Spanish American soldiers, we honor you too, for your deeds of valor, and the boys of 1917 and 18, every school boy and girl has read of your heroism.  We have prayed God, if it were His will, that not one blue star on our service flag would be changed to a silver or gold one, but the silver and the gold ones are multiplying all over our land.  We will not forget the dear boys who have protected us from the enemy and the tyrant.  When I say I love and honor the Khaki clad boys, I believe I echo the sentiment of every loyal heart in the audience.  The wounded and mutilated from "overseas" received those wounds for us.  Shall we not deal tenderly and lovingly with them?  The dead who sleep under the flowers "over there" as well as the one who lies before us here today, deserve and will have our lasting gratitude and love for they died for us.  We can not understand God's plans, but His word is so full of comfort and assurance, we need not falter in our faith, or for one moment question His dealings with us.  Omer leaves a father, grandfather, two aunts, two sisters, and a brother, with a host of friends to mourn his going away - Sometime, we will understand these lessons here, be patient now,

"And if someone we love is lying low,

Where human kisses cannot reach the face,

Oh, do not blame the loving Father so

But wear your sorrow with obedient grace.

And you will shortly know that lengthened breath

Is not the sweetest thing God gives His friend;

And that sometimes the sable pall of death

Concelas the fairest boon his love can send

If we could push aside the gates of life

And stand within and all God's workings see

We could interpret all this doubt and strife

And for each mystery find a key.

But not today, then be content poor heart,

God's plans like lillies, pure and white, unfold;

We must not tear the close-shut leaves apart.

Time will reveal the galaxys of gold.

And if through patient toil we reach that land

Where the tired feet with sandies loosed may rest.

When all shall know and clearly under-

I think that we say "God knew the best."

How can we refuse to be comforted when our boys exchange the Khaki suit for a robe of white, or when this world so full of sorrow, disappointment, war and death, is changed for the one described in Rev. 20:4:"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill. - Jan. 9, 1918 - "

"Victrola at Camp Stuart: Dedicated to the Memory of Omer READNOUR.  Is a Boon to Wounded Boys:  The people of Kinmundy and vicinity will be pleased to know that the funds which they contributed for the wounded boys at Camp Stuart, Va., is bringing such happiness and enjoyment to them.  A letter received from Miss Rutherford enclosed a note of appreciation and thanks from one of the medical officers, which we print herewith, because it expresses better than we can, the feeling of gratitude of these people.  At the suggestion of Miss RUTHERFORD, the Victrola, purchased with a part of this money, has been dedicated as a memorial to Omer READNOUR.  The letter follows: 

Dec. 30, 1918 - In Memory of Omer READNOUR;

I wish to take this opportunity to thank you good people of Kinmundy and vicinity for the Victrola which you presented to us to be used in our ward at the Embarkation Hospital, Camp Stuart, Va.  For some time we have wished for something to relieve the monotony of our over seas patients, who had little with which to pass the time, while in the Ward.  Since the Victrola came it has been played almost constantly and if you could see the pleasure it gives these men, you would be much gratified and know that your memorial could not be better planned than to give pleasure to these shell shocked boys, who for the first hours on native soil find rest after enduring all the horrors of the terrible war.  Thanking you for your great kindness, I remain yours truly,

U.M. Lauman, Captain M.C.

  William E. Reynolds

“The Marion County Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 23, 1919

 Respect to Comrade: The following letters were received by Mrs. Priscilla REYNOLDS following the death of her son, Willie, with the Expeditionary forces in France and best eloquent testimony to his popularity among his friends and comrades in arms.

Mrs. Pricilla REYNOLDS – Alma, Ill.

Dear Mrs. REYNOLDS:

      I suppose you were notified by wire of the death of your son, William.  However, I am writing in order to be assured that you are notified.

He was taken ill transferred to the hospital and passed from his earth on Oct. 12.  He was in the hospital several days.  His illness was contagious, so there was nothing I could do to prevent it.

He was loved by all members of the company and was known for his genial spirit.  We send our sincerest sympathy to you in your grief.  God’s Will be done.  His effects will be sent to you by the commanding officer of the hospital.

     Sincerely,

     H.A. CRAMER - Capt. Co. A.  326 M.G.B.N.

“The Marion County Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois - Jan. 23, 1919

France, Dec. 14, 1918:

Dear Friend: I expect you have already had official notice of the death in one British Hospital here of your son, 1978544, Bugler W.E. REYNOLDS, 326 Machine Gun.  Bat. U.S. Army.  He was buried with full military honors in a portion of the French Cemetery set apart for British and American troops and as chaplain of his denomination, I conducted the burial service.  I wish to convey to you my very deep sympathy with you in your bereavement.  Your son was one the many who have laid down their lives in a great an noble cause and the world is even now beginning to reap the benefit of their sacrifice.  May God be with you in your sorrow giving to your hearts the comfort and hope which He alone, can impart.  With utmost sympathy, I remain, Yours very sincerely,

Chaplain Alex C. MacLEAN

"The Kinmundy Express" - July 28, 1921 - "The remains of Willie REYNOLDS brought from France, was buried at Alma Sunday.  A large crowd was in attendance as he was taken to his last resting place."

  Xon Schooley

(V-341) Xon Schooley

“The Kinmundy Express”:

June 19, 1941 - "Leave for Camp: Xon SCHOOLEY, Merle HAMMER, D.A. ARNOLD, and Frank BOYD left Tuesday evening for Chicago where they will be inducted into selective service."

July 3, 1941 - "Xon SCHOOLEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. James SCHOOLEY, who was called week before last into the selective service, writes us a short note.  He is stationed at Camp Polk, La.  He is a member of the 3rd Armored Division and has been assigned to Co. B, 40th A.R. (M).  He writes, "If I don't die from the heat, the army and I will get along swell.  The fellows I came with are all good guys, and the grub is o.k.  The officers seem to realize we're trying to learn and we've sure got a lot of that to do.  We have a big job ahead of us.  The captain told us we'd shoot everything and ride everything here within the next thirteen weeks and by then we're supposed to be soldiers."  We're glad you are liking it Xon, and we hope all our other boys are liking it equally well."

Oct. 9, 1941 - "Pvt. Xon SCHOOLEY of Fort Knox, Ky, spent a 3 day furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James SCHOOLEY."

March 12, 1942 - "P.F.C. Xon SCHOOLEY of Co. "H" 32nd Armored Regiment, 3rd Armored Division has been promoted to Technician. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James SCHOOLEY residing south of this city."

Dec. 10, 1942 - "Xon SCHOOLEY is visiting with Mr. and Mrs. Jim SCHOOLEY and Clark."

July 8, 1943 - "Pvt. Xon SCHOOLEY is here visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James SCHOOLEY."

Sept. 21, 1944 - "Cpl. Xon SCHOOLEY, son of Mr. and Mrs. James SCHOOLEY, Reported Killed in Action in France: Another telegram was received in this community Sunday from the War Dept. which of course bore some very sad news. This was addressed to Mr. and Mrs. James SCHOOLEY and stated that their son, Xon, had been killed in action in France, on Aug. 8th. This was certainly a hard blow to this good family and another severe shock to the community. Mrs. SCHOOLEY, in company with another son, Maurice and family, of Vandalia, happened to be visiting relatives in Salem at the time the message was delivered. When they returned home, the father had to deliver the sad news. But they were thankful Maurice was with them on this occasion. Xon was the baby of the family of 7 children. Naturally, a lot of love and affection was bestowed upon him by his family. And he had aunts and uncles who loved him almost as much as his parents. They, too, are grief stricken. Xon was born Oct. 3, 1918 in the present SCHOOLEY homestead 1 mile south of Kinmundy. He attended school in Kinmundy and graduated from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘36. Since graduation, he worked at various jobs, helping his father on the farm, working some in the oil fields near Salem, and in a lumber mill in Pennsylvania. It was while he was working in Pennsylvania that he registered for the Selective Service. He afterwards came home and had his registration transferred to the local board. He did not wait his turn for the Selective Service but volunteered and was mustered into the army June 18, 1941. After graduating from a communications school at Ft. Knox, Ky., he was commissioned as a Corporal, which rank he held until his death. He was assigned to the 3rd Armored Division and sailed overseas about a year ago. He entered France on June 17th and was a radio operator in a tank. Besides his parents, he leaves 5 brothers, namely, PFC David SCHOOLEY of Dale Mabry Field, Fla.; Maurice of Vandalia; Glenn of Chicago; Clyde of Burbank, Calif.; and Clark at home; and 1 sister, Mrs. Helen GAINES of Mattoon. A brother-in-law, Floyd GAINES, is also serving with the armed forces. Due to the failing health of both Mr. and Mrs. SCHOOLEY, it is their desire that no memorial service be held. But we are sure they would appreciate a card or letter or even a visit from their many friends. Truly, Xon was a good soldier and we know that he made things pleasant for everyone around him just like he did when he was here. We will miss that cheery smile he had for everyone."

(V-342) Xon Schooley funeral

"The Kinmundy Express" - Nov. 11, 1948 - "Funeral Services Held Sunday for Cpl. Xon SCHOOLEY: The casketed remains of Cpl. Xon SCHOOLEY arrived here Saturday morning and were accompanied to the home of his parents south of Kinmundy by members of the Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  Services were held Sunday afternoon from the Methodist Church, Rev. Orlando BRAKEMEYER, officiating.  Interment was made in Evergreen cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  Xon, youngest son of James and Lena WHITSON SCHOOLEY, was born in the family homestead south of Kinmundy Oct. 3, 1918 and was killed in action in France on Aug. 2, 1944, aged 25 years, 10 months, and 25 days.  Xon grew to manhood in this community attending the local grade school and graduating from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘36.  After his graduation, he worked at various jobs, helping his father with the farm work, working some in the oil fields near Salem and in a lumber mill in Pennsylvania.  It was while working in Penn. that he registered for the draft.  He later returned home had his registration, changed to the local board and reenlisted.  He was mustered in the service June 18, 1941.  After graduation from a communications school at Ft. Knox, Ky., he was commissioned to a corporal.  He was assigned to the 3^rd Armored Division and sailed overseas, entering France June 17, 1944.  He was a radio operator in a tank.  Truly, Xon was a good soldier and we know that the made things pleasant for everyone around him just like he did when he was here.  We have all missed the cheery smile he had for everyone.  Besides his parents, he is survived by four brothers, namely, David, Chicago; Maurice, Vandalia; Glenn and Clark, Kinmundy; and one sister, Helen GAINES, Mattoon.  Relatives from out-of-town attending the services included David SCHOOLEY, Chicago; Mr. and Mrs. Maurice SCHOOLEY, Vandalia; Mr. and Mrs. Floyd GAINES, Mattoon; Mr. and Mrs. Web ALLEN, Charleston; Mr. and Mrs. Marvin WHITSON and Miss Elsie WHITSON, Salem."

  Herbert Max "Guy" See

“The Kinmundy Express”

March 4, 1920 - "Herbert Max SEE arrived Saturday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Guy SEE at Clifton.  The grandparents, R.C. ROBB and W.H. SEE of this city are happy over this new arrival."

Oct. 12, 1944 - "Ensign Max SEE of Florida, spend Wednesday here with his aunt, Mrs. Lois ROBB.  Ensign SEE is the son of Guy SEE of Kankakee, Ill."

Apr. 19, 1945 – “Missing in Action: A clipping from the New York Sun, received by relatives reads as follows: "(With Admiral Mitschers' East Carrier Task Forces, Oil Toyko):  A pilot from our own carrier, Ens. Herbert Max SEE, of Kankakee, Ill., flying with our first fighter sweep, destroyed a locomotive with blasts from his 50 millimeter guns as he swooped thirty feet above the target.  This 24 year old pilot is the son of Guy SEE of Kankakee, and a former Kinmundy boy and a grandson of Henry SEE, residing south of town.  Relatives have received word this lad is now missing in action."

April 11, 1946 - "Ensign Hubert Max SEE Dead: Word was received this week from the Naval Department, officially declaring Ensign Hubert Max SEE dead.  He had been missing in action since March 26, 1945 and was supposed to have been shot down while flying over Japan.  Ensign SEE was the eldest son of Mr. Guy SEE, of Kankakee, and a grandson of Mr. H.W. SEE, residing south of this city."

  Hobart Harrell See

“The Marion County Express”; Kinmundy, Illinois – Jan. 9, 1918"

Camp Grant; Dec. 15, 1917

Mr. Edwin HARRELL, Kinmundy, Ill.

   Dear Uncle,

            I have been located here since Oct. 3.  Today is Sunday and a rather dull day in spite of the fact that there are several thousand visitors here.  The week is pretty well occupied with exercising, drilling and lectures.  The Lieutenant explained the mechanism of the Craig rifle to us one day last week.  We have been using wooden guns lately owing to the fact that there are not enough rifles to go around.  They are training us in the different bayonet exercise position and aiming drills mostly.  The Camp is an immense affair being built on about 15,000 acres five miles from Rockford.  The Rock river borders the camp on the west.  There are several dozen Army Y.M.C.A. scattered about over the camp.  They furnish us all of the stationery we use and one has a library in one end of the building. The auditorium is fitted up with a moving picture machine and a rostrum.  We have some good pianists.  Every “Y” has a good piano which make the evenings pass pleasantly.   They are going to be a large number leave for France about the 15^th.  I don’t know whether I will be one of that number or not.  We never know when or who it will be until about 12 hours before hand.   So many of the boys are always have a clash with the new commanders.  I can be here until the war closes, and not have any words with them.  The day after I arrived I saw two marched off to the guard house.     ______  refused to sign up, Religious _______, I understand  was the cause.  We have some fine Lieutenants for instructors.  Some of the non-commissioned officers are Lieutenants in feelings.  We have been without heat, but they have the boilers going now _____ had small colds.  Our eatables are good.  I understand Co I ____ in having such a good cook.  We will be under quarantine Monday.  One of the boys in our barracks broke out with the measles or will in a few hours anyway.  Of course that will stop outgoing mail.  We were under quarantine about three weeks ago for spinal meningitis.   Fifteen more of our men are going south; two to Alabama, and thirteen to Waco, Texas to Camp McArthur.  One is from our squad.  Last night we assembled in the mess hall to see Lieut. Andrews demonstrate Lewis Automatic Rifles.  It is a 30 caliber same as our Enfield rifle and shoots about 4000 shots per minute.  It weighs 28 pounds and can be fired with the butt at the hip and moving at a walk.  It is gas operated and air cooled.  The barrel is inside of the radiator which is 26 inches in length and 4 inches in diameter.  The radiator is made of aluminum which is much lighter than the machine gun.  The Lewis gun is a new invention, being made in 1917.  It costs $480.  The French auto gun costs $20.  The operator must be able to take it apart and assemble it in the dark, we must all know how to fire it however.  We are having a good deal of bayonet work.  On January 15^th, 10% of our Co. will be chosen as first class bayonet fighters.  Next week we have fencing lessons.  We will pair off and go at it as our instructor says.  He said he will have the ambulance with us and if we get hurt after being instructed, it will be his own fault.   This morning was inspected, we passed O.K., but they are drawing the line straighter.  We had a written examination in the semaphore code.  I got along alright except for writing down “pints” of horseshoes instead of “prints of horseshoes”.  We go on guard in less than an hour.  It is now after 3:00 p.m..  My Corporal last week froze one ear__ some but that was one of the coldest nights we had, it won’t be so bad tonight though.  We will come off at 4:00 p.m. tomorrow.   At my elbow, a Victoria is playing “Uncle Josh Keeps House”.  We do not lack for entertainment you see.  I have only done fair in my target work.  The best I have is at 300 yards.  I made 61 points out of 75.  The Captain is second best in the regiment, he made 64 points.

            Must close or be late for formal Guard Mount - As ever, Hobart SEE

“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – March 14, 1918 - "On last Wednesday night two train loads of soldiers from Camp Grant passed through this city on the I.C.R.R. on their way south.  Hobart SEE, son of M.H. SEE and wife, of this city, was one of them."

“Marion County Express”, Kinmundy, Ill. – July 4, 1918;

Somewhere in France;

Miss Kate and Betty ATKINS; Kinmundy, Ill.;

    Dear Friends,

            I will answer the welcome letter which I received from you just before I left the U.S.A.  I surely was glad to hear from you and that all was well.  This leaves me doing nicely except that I am home sick for some good church service.  It has been several months since I was to Sunday School or preaching service, but I never can forget the good times we enjoyed at home church even in the thick of the fight over here, the memory will be sweet.  The people do not realize what they are missing by neglecting the religious side of life while at home, but they would notice it here.

            We are located in a place about the size of Kinmundy but there are no Y.M.C.A.’s or Protestant Churches here.  I have a church paper I have been carrying with me.  I read in it when ever I have time.  Guess I will have to do like Abraham Lincoln, memorize it after while.  Of course, I have a Testament with me.  Well, I remember the last Sunday at Kinmundy.  I hope and pray that God will see fit to end this war within the next few months.  I have not forgotten my vows to God and my thots always look forward to the future when my aim may be accomplished.

            We are located in billets at present.  We spend the day mostly in drilling and detail work.  We are associated a great deal with the British Tommies; and the French soldier seems to be rather scarce here for some reason.

            Everything is so quaint here.  One scarcely ever sees a young Frenchman, mostly old men and boys.  It is the work of grim war. When we first arrived here we had to give away most of our clothing as we could not carry it on our back.  Of course we could have it stored it away but some will never live to reclaim it, it is quite probable.  There were scores of families in need in that vicinity, so we gave it to them.  One article I kept was a sweater my mother made.

            I suppose you see my folks quite often.  It may be a short time and yet quite a while before I see home again. The war seems to be at a crisis now.

            I suppose the folks at home are worried considerable about my welfare.   We sent mail several days ago but we had been instructed wrong as to the address so  two sacks were returned.  I will close hopeing you will write again.

                    Your Brother in Christ Jesus, Hobart SEE

Hobart Harrell See died Aug. 8, 1918 in Fismes, Marne, Champagne-Ardenne, France

“The Kinmundy Express”

June 11, 1931 - "Gold Star Mother: Mrs. Mike SEE left Tuesday evening via Chicago for France with party G, of the Gold Star Mother's pilgrimage, to visit the United States Military Cemeteries.  Her son, Hobart H. SEE, of Company A, 59th Infantry, who was killed Aug. 8, 1918, near Fismes, France, is buried in an unknown grave in the Military Cemetery near Fereen Tardenois.  Every step of these "Mothers" is carefully cared for from the time they step on the train in their home town, until they return six weeks hence, and every cent of expense assumed by the U.S. Government.  Party G will arrive in Jersey City Thursday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock and sail on the President Harding at Noon Sat., June 13.  Two weeks will be spent in France, 5 days at the cemeteries.  Mrs. SEE's many friends are glad to know she can go on this sacred pilgrimage, with these hundreds of other Gold Star Mothers, and be for a short time near the grave of her beloved son."

July 2, 1931 - "Mrs. M.H. SEE Writes Very Interesting Letter:

Paris, France; Hotel Pierrs 1 er; June 21, 1931

Dear Winifred,

    Arrived at Cherbourg at 9 am this morning; we had a wonderful trip across.  I am feeling fine.  We took a special train at the wharf to Paris, arriving at 3:30 pm.  Then took motor bus to Hotel.  There are 21 of the party at this hotel.  The other 4 groups are at different hotels.  A tender, the "Welcome" came out to the "Harding" in the harbor with 5 U.S. Army officials to conduct us ashore.  23 of the party left the ship at Plymouth to visit the Brookwood cemetery near London.  The trip to Paris was through lovely country.  After seeing nothing but water for 8 days, the green grass, trees, growing gardens and crops were a "sight for sore eyes".  France has more cattle than U.S., but a dense population takes more milk.  I saw poppies blooming like weeks.  I saw them in the wheat.  It is not cut yet. 

    This is a fine hotel, we have first class service and are served first at meals.  I got an American newspaper, The Chicago Daily Tribune.  It looked like home.  This PM we go to the Arc de Triumphe to lay a wreath on the tomb of the unknown Soldier. 

    We leave Thursday for the cemetery Oise-Aisne.  We stay at Soissons, as the Hostess House at Tere-en-Tardenois is not large enough to accommodate this party.  We will stay until Monday in the battlefield areas.  On Saturday we go from Soissons to Rheims along the Rheims Road through Fismes.  I will pass the exact spot where Hobart fell, but only God knows where it is.  We visit three days at the cemetery.  So many mothers and widows of unknown soldiers are on this trip.  My roommate is a Gold Star widow, 32 years old, from Woodlawn, Jefferson County, Ill.  Her husband's grave is unknown.  We stopped at Queenstown, Ireland to send mail to the U.S.  The coast of Ireland and England looked lovely.  They have daylight savings time here.  The harbor at Cherbourg is guarded by large forts one on each side of the entrance.  It looked like war.  I haven't seen many autos here nor so much evidence of wealth.  We do not hardly have to think for ourselves, everything has been arranged.  We go back on the S.S. America, a vessel of more than 3900 tons.  "The Harding" was only something more than 1300 tons, which accounted for it's rolling so.  We visit Chateau Thierry, Belleau Wood and Hill 204.  I have not seen many French women or children.  People were working in the fields and washings were on the line, and it Sunday, as we came from Cherbourg.  The dwelling houses are painted in bright colors - green, blue, etc. with red roofs.  Crops are very small, sometimes a strip no more than a rod wide and maybe half a quarter long across a field would be in one crop of grain.  It is remarkable how the land produces.  The waiters and elevator boys speak enough English so we can understand them.  We have been and are treated with great cordiality, and made to feel welcome and comfortable. 

     Group G of the Gold Star Pilgrimage consists of 107 mothers and widows from 29 states.  There are 3 from Illinois.  The oldest mother is 78 years old.  Many of them are of foreign birth and speak very broken English.  Love to all.  Hope all are well.  

      Mother, Alice H. SEE."

  Emmett Shoemaker

April 1945 - "Salem Times-Commoner" - Emmett SHOEMAKER was killed in Action in Belgium March 5, 1945.  At the time of his death, he was in the Third Army commanded by Gen. George Patton.  He is survived by his wife, Gertie, and five sons: Woody, Marshall, Emmett Jr., Tanner and an infant son five months old.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. William SHOEMAKER of Salem, and two brothers, Sam and Roy, of Salem, also survive.  Emmett had an excellent record with the Brown Shoe Co.  He began work in the Last__ Department of the Salem Factory Nov. 13, 1942.  Emmett was well known both among the Brown Shoe family and other people of the community.  Emmett left the factory and was enlisted in June 1944.  As soon as he had completed his training he was shipped to Europe and soon became a part of the Big Drive that finaly crushed the ___my. 

Oct. 30, 1947 - "The Kinmundy Express"  - PFC Allen L. BRASEL & Pvt. Emmett N. SHOEMAKER to Arrive in Kinmundy Soon: The casketed remains of two Alma men, World War II deceased members of the Armed Forces returned from overseas for final burial, will arrive in Kinmundy in the next few weeks, each accompanied by a uniformed U.S. Army escort from the Chicago Distribution of the American Graves Registration Division.  The body of Private First Class Allen L. BRASEL, who served overseas with the U.S. Army, was interred in the Herni Chapelle temporary cemetery in Belgium, but has been returned to this country for final interment at the request of his next of kin, Mr. Paul BRASEL, Alma, Ill.  The body of Private Emmett N. SHOEMAKER, who served overseas with the U.S. Army, was interred in the Herni Chapelle temporary military cemetery in Belgium, but has been returned to this country for final interment at the request of his next of kin, Mrs. Gertie SHOEMAKER, General Delivery, Salem, Ill."

  Lyle Shreffler

Lyle Shreffler with Tom and Jim

“The Kinmundy Express” 

Nov. 25, 1943 - "S. Sgt. Lyle SHREFFLER of Oregon, arrived here Monday for a few days visit here with relatives and in Alma, with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil SHREFFLER."

(V-17)  Lyle Shreffler

“The Kinmundy Express” 

May 24, 1945 – “2nd Lt. Lyle J. SHREFFLER, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil SHREFFLER, Killed in Okinawa: Mr. and Mrs. Cecil SHREFFLER, of Alma, received word Tuesday morning from the War Dept. stating “your son, 2nd Lt. SHREFFLER, Lyle J., was killed in action on Okinawa 20 April.”  This was, indeed, a severe shock to this good family as well as his many relatives and friends.  Lyle J., son of Cecil and Lillian BLACK SHREFFLER, was born Nov. 3, 1921, in Tonti twp.  When just a lad, this family moved to Kinmundy twp. where he attended school at the Sherman School and later the Kinmundy Schools.  He was graduated from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘39.  He entered the service on Oct. 20, 1942.  He worked up through the ranks and held the rating of Staff Sergeant when he shipped overseas July 4, 1944, landing in Hawaii.  From there he went to the Philippine Islands and then to Okinawa.  He was with the 96th Division and after the battle of Leyte, he was one of 11 men left out of his battalion.  On March 5, 1945, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant and transferred to another company in the same division.  Lt. SHREFFLER received the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Philippine Island Liberation Ribbon with 2 stars and the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon.  Besides the parents, he leaves 1 brother, Cpl. George, now stationed in Utah; and 4 sisters, Mrs. Wanda EAGAN of this city; Nelda, Donna and Mona at home; and 3 grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George BLACK, and Mrs. Ella SHREFFLER, all of Alma.  The last letter received by the parents was dated April 15th.  Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to this good family.”

"The Kinmundy Express" - March 31, 1949 - "The casketed remains of 2nd Lt. Lyle J. SHREFFLER, who was killed in action on Okinawa, April 20, 1945, arrived here last Thursday night and were taken to the Linton Funeral Home where they remained until Saturday when they were taken to the family home in Alma.  Funeral services were held from the Methodist church in Alma, Sunday afternoon, Rev. W.G. WIGHAM, of Central City, officiating and Rev. C.I. HEFLIN of Alma, assisting.  Interment was made in the Alma Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  Second Lt. Lyle James SHREFFLER, eldest son of Cecil L. and Lillie BLACK SHREFFLER, was born near Alma, Illinois, Nov. 3, 1921. He grew to young manhood on a farm near Kinmundy, Illinois, and entered Kinmundy High School, graduating with honors with his class in the spring of 1939.  For two years he operated a filling station at Alma, Illinois when he was called to enter the army, Oct. 20, 1942.  He received most of his training at Camp Adair, Oregon, and sailed to the South Pacific July 4, 1944.  He landed on the Philippine Islands being in active combat on several of these islands, especially Leyte and Luzon.  He received his commission as Second Lieutenant and was transferred from Company F to Company L and sent to Okinawa, landing there on Easter Sunday, April 8, 1945.  He was killed in action on this island April 20, 1945.  He is survived by his parents, one brother, Sgt. George SHREFFLER; 4 sisters, Mrs. James EAGAN, Kinmundy, Illinois; Mrs. Harry MULLINS, Hammond, Ind.; Mrs. Henry WILLIAMS, Mt. Carmel, Illinois; and Mrs. Hartzell POWELL, of Alma, Illinois; three grandparents, Mrs. Ella SHREFFLER, and Mr. and Mrs. George BLACK, all of Alma, Illinois.  Three small nephews and two nieces; besides a host of relatives and friends.  Two infant sisters preceded him in death.  Lyle was a quiet, peace loving boy, and this admirable personality was retained throughout his army career, as was verified by his comrade, Kirkwood Wingfield.  He came to see Lyle's parents when he returned from overseas at the close of the war.  So in his quiet way he was a friend to all his fellowmen.  But amid the roar and din of fierce battle that spring day the Heavenly Father called him to that Celestial Home of eternal peace and quiet.  So we, his loved ones, that must linger yet a little while, are comforted with the thought that this boy that made so great a sacrifice is now - Safe in they immortality."

  Harold E. Shufeldt

“The Kinmundy Express”

Feb. 6, 1941 - "Harold SHUFELDT found Dead in Puerto Rico Sunday; body to be Shipped Here: Mr. and Mrs. Marion SHUFELDT received a telegram Sunday afternoon reporting their son, Harold, had been found dead a 10:00 that morning.  It was certainly a great shock to them as well as the whole community.  Harold enlisted with the Army Air Corps on Nov. 29, 1939 in Texas for a period of 3 years.  He received training at Kelly Field.  For the past few months he has been on guard duty with the 24th Air Base Squadron, Borinquen Field, Puerto Rico.  All the message stated was that he was found dead.  Particulars would follow by letter.  Wire whether the family wished the body be cremated or embalmed and shipped home.  The family wired to embalm and ship the body home.  It has been estimated that it will be about a week yet before the body will arrive.  The letter arrived here yesterday stating Harold had been shot and the authorities were investigating.  Harold was 19 years of age and a graduate of the local high school with the class of '38.  The whole community is extending heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved parents."

Feb. 20, 1941 - "Private Harold E. SHUFELDT Laid to Rest Saturday with Military Honors:  The remains of Pvt. Harold E. SHUFELDT arrived here Thursday on the I.C. Train No. 3 and was taken to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Marion SHUFELDT, south of this city.  Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon in the high school gymnasium with Rev. E.M. DYCUS, of Carrier Mills, officiating and Rev. WIGHAM, of Alma assisting.  There were more than 500 relatives and friends in attendance at the funeral services.  The obituary was written and read by Mrs. Clyde HIESTAND, a neighbor and a close friend of the family.  Mrs. Paulene JOHNSON presided at the instrument throughout the services, playing "Lead Kindly Light" and "Largo" as the processional.  A quartet composed of Helen PRUETT, Marjorie BAILEY, Donna ANDREWS, and Annette VALLOW sang "Jesus Pilot Me" and "Beautiful Isle of Somewhere".  Mrs. J.N. VALLOW sang "Sleep Soldier Boy."  The pallbearers were Marvin BASSETT, Richard WILLIAMS, Howard ROBB, Benny DOOLEN, Charles KLINE, and Arthur BOYD all with the exception of one, former class mates.  Members of the local American Legion Post formed an honorary escort.  The body will be laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery with military honors by Company I of the Illinois Nationals Guard of Salem.  

Obituary: Death is but the mystic door, Wherethro' glows life forever more.  It is the chillness that precedes the dawn.  It also rides on every passing breeze.  John W____ said of death: ' I come, Thy servant, Lord, replies I come to meet Thee in the skies, And claim my heavenly rest!  Now let this pilgrims journey end: Now, O' my Savior, Brother, Friend, Receive me to thy breast.   Harold Edwin, eldest son of Marion and Mary MEYER SHUFELDT, was born Sept. 24th, 1921 and passed away in Puerto Rico where he was stationed with the U.S. Regulars, Feb. 2nd, 1941, aged 19 years, 4 months, 8 days.  Harold was an intelligent promising youth; not only his family but the whole community is grieved by his passing.  He was an apt pupil, graduating from Kinmundy High School at the age of 16.  When just a lad, he enlisted in his Savior's cause, uniting with the Pleasant Grove Methodist Church.  In November 1939, he enlisted in the U.S. Regular Army.  He sailed to Puerto Rico in March, 1940, and passed away while on duty in the service of his country and for humanity.  To each of us has come or will come soon the long separation.  God is no respector of persons.  'There is no flock, however watched and tended.  But one dead lamb is there; There is no household how so'er defended, But has one vacant chair.'  Harold has taken the boat Home.  His brief life has not been lived in vain but, will be an incentive for his loved ones and friends to meet him in the Land where we never say good bye.  He is survived by his parents, one sister, Mrs. Herbert ANDERSON, three brothers, Kenneth, Darrell, and Lawrence, one grandmother, Mrs. Chas. SHUFELDT of Salem, a number of uncles, aunts, cousins, and many friends.  Harold will be missed.  Another household is in mourning but not without hope.  'We are quite sure That he will give them back again bright, pure and beautiful - We know he will but keep Our own and His until we fall asleep.  We know that.  He does not mean to break the strands reaching between the Here and There.  God never made Spirit for spirit, answering shade for shade.  And placed them side by side - So wrougth in one, though separate, mystified - And meant to break the quivering threads between when we shall wake, and I am quite sure we shall be very glad.  That for a little while we were so sad.  Card of Thanks - We wish to take this means of expressing our heartfelt thanks to our many kind neighbors and friends for their assistance, words of sympthay and condolence, music and floral offerings during our bereavement.  Your many kindnesses will never be forgotten.  The Family."

  Lincoln Hugh Spencer

"Marion County Express", Kinmundy, Ill.

Jan. 2, 1918 - "Mr. Hugh SPENCER, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. SPENCER, is stationed at Camp Taylor. While on furlough, he arrived in Salem and was met by Miss Virgie BRASEL, who is employed there, and they were married at the ME parsonage in that city. The bride is daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry BRASEL who resides north of town."

June 6, 1918 - "Word has been received that L. Hugh SPENCER, son of W.J. SPENCER and wife, had arrived safely over seas.  He is in the photographic section of the aerial section.  C.W. HANNA and wife received word on Tuesday of the safe landing of their son Leon overseas."

Aug. 8, 1918 - "A letter received by Mr. and Mrs. W.J. SPENCER from their son, Hugh, states that he is now stationed somewhere in Belgium."

Nov. 14, 1918 - "Dear Folks: I will now drop you a few lines to let you know that I am O.K. and have just got back from another trip to the lines.  It looks somewhat like there might be a good chance for peace in a short time but of course it's hard to tell what will happen.  The Germans have been pushed back a long distance here and are still going.  They retreated so fast we had a hard job to keep up with them as we had to carry our guns and ammunition besides our equipment.  The country where we are now located has been held by the Germans since 1914 but they are many miles from here now.  There are large number of civilians here who are mighty thankful to be released from German rule.  There are some of the finest cabbage patches around here I have ever seen and they sure taste good, also we find potatoes and turnip patches, to which we help ourselves.  You ought to see the large number of prisoners and guns and war material we have captured from the Germans.  The farms here are larger and the buildings are all built of brick and are very roomey.  We passed thru what is known as the Hindenburg line several days ago and the country around there is one of the most tore up pieces of land I ever expect to see.  The country around here tho isn't tore up much and the buildings are only occasionally damaged.  One night I stayed in a recently evacuated town and we took possession of one of the finest houses in the place much of the furniture was still there even to the piano.  The garden was one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.  Will close for this time hoping to hear from you soon. 

I remain as every your son.   Hugh SPENCER. 

Nov. 28, 1918 - "Hugh SPENCER, stationed in France, is suffering from influenza. His father J.W. SPENCER reports that he just recovered from a gas attack not long ago."

Dec. 12, 1918 - "Mr. and Mrs. W.J. SPENCER received word of the death of their son, Hugh, on Nov. 13, 1918 somewhere in France of influenza. Several months ago he had been severally gassed while in the trenches, and it is thought this weakened his system. While he was home on furlough during the Christmas holidays, he married Miss Vergie BRASEL, daughter of Harry BRASEL of this city."

May 22, 1919 - "A Tribute to Ours Boys of the Blue, Silver and Gold Stars; the Alumni meeting of 1919 would fail in one of its most vital points of interest, did we forget do honor to the boys from our roll of membership who have given their services to their country in her hour of great need, and whose names with henceforth be written in shining stars of blue, silver and gold, on the memory of every loyal man and woman, boy and girl of Kinmundy of this Association and of this great nation of which we are a part ..... Lincoln Hugh SPENCER, Class of '12, went into training at Camp Taylor, Ky, Oct. 3, 1917, was assigned to Co. D.; Landed in France May 29, 1918.  Gassed in Belgium Oct. 6.  Was afterwards fighting in France; died from sickness and is buried at Rowene, France.  At the time was in the 30th division, Machine Gun Battery.  Hugh was the second in our list to have his star of blue turned to gold.

The pain shall be to those who wait

Cross ocean mist and foam,

Who'll miss his face among the ranks

When soldier boys come home."

"The Kinmundy Express" - Aug. 11, 1921:  "Lincoln Hugh SPENCER, another son of Marion Co., and son of Wm. J. and Eva STORMENT SPENCER, was born near Salem on Jan. 8, 1894 and died in Rowen, France on Nov. 13, 1918. He came with his parents to Kinmundy when 14, and was a graduate of Kinmundy High School. He enlisted on Oct. 3, 1917, and while at home on furlough he married Miss Virgie BRASEL on Dec. 31, 1917. He left for France in May 1918, and was sent to Belgium and entered the firing line in early July, and was gassed Sept. 2, and sent to the hospital, reporting back Oct. 6 in France. Hugh was sent to the hospital on Oct. 26, suffering from influenza and Bronchial Pneumonia. He walked 2 days to get to the ambulance and was 3 days on an ambulance before reaching the hospital where he passed away on Nov. 13, 1918, 48 hours after signed armistice, and was buried in Roueu, France. The remains were brought back to the home place and then taken from the home to the cemetery on a wagon drawn by 4 white horses and a casket draped in a flag. Burial was at Evergreen Cemetery."

Burial spot at Evergreen Cemetery in Kinmundy of Lincoln Hugh Spencer

Burl Sullens

(V-462) Burl Sullens

Burl Sullens is buried in Belgium after he gave his life for his country in 1945 during World War II.  I have seen it in person and took a picture of his grave.  When I saw his grave, I was told the white marble is of the highest quality because he lost his life at war. The flags are to represent where he is from and where his body is now laid to rest and honored. They also put sand around his grave from the shores of Normandy. He died in a battle in Germany not far from the Belgium and German border, while they were taking a town in Germany. 

Burl died during the taking of the city of Duren in Germany, not far from the border of Belgium and Germany, on Feb. 25, 1945.

The following website tells about the infantry division he was in, and the taking of Duren:  

http://www.eucmh.com/2016/03/15/l-co-138-id-crossing-the-roer-river-attack-on-duren-2/

(Information from his great-great granddaughter, Tabithia Guerrero)

(V-452) Burl Sullens stone in Henri-Chapelle Belgium at the Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery

(V-451) Burl Sullens stone in Henri-Chapelle Belgium at the Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery

"PFC   13 Inf.   8 Div.    Illinois    Feb. 25, 1945"

Salem, Illinois newspaper - April 1945: "Six World War II Dead Honored at Brown Shoe Co. Memorial Service Here Tuesday"

"Burl Sullens was employed in the Cutting Department of the Salem Factory when he enlisted Dec. 19, 1943.  He had begun work for the Brown Shoe Co. March 11, 1942.  Burl was sent overseas in July 1944 as soon as he had completed his training.  He became a part of the Big Drive to crush the enemy and was Killed in Action Feb. 25, 1945.   Burl is survived by his wife, Dorothea, and three sons, Charles, Francis, and Lloyd.  His father, Charles Sullens, also survives.  Surviving brothers and sisters include: Pvt. Harold Sullens with the famous Third Army, Basil Sullens (recently discharged from the U.S. navy), Mrs. Beulah Chance, Mrs. Helen Pick of Centralia, Mrs. Sybil Eagan of Pana, Mrs. Violet Mollet and Mrs. Pauline Durham of Chicago.  Pfc. Sullens had been awarded the Purple Heart and the Infantrymen's Combat Ribbon.  He had been wounded in October 1944, but had returned to action in a short time.  He had an excellent record as a workman in the factory."

"The Decatur Herald" - Apr. 3, 1945 - "Midstate Death List is Long" - Washington, April 2.   The War department made public today the names of Illinois soldiers killed in action in the European and Pacific areas.  The list included ...

Pfc. Burl Sullens, husband of Mrs. Dorthea C. Sullens, Salem."

  Manuel Welsh

"The Kinmundy Express"

Sept. 30, 1943 - "Accepted by the Cardinals" - "Manuel WELSH, the 20 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Manuel WELSH of this city has been in St. Louis, Mo., trying out for the Cardinal Ball Club.  There were 400 boys from every part of the United States trying out for every position of a team. Manual was one of 150 accepted as a rookie pitcher.  First Manuel has a heavy date with Uncle Sam, starting October 15.  We want to congratulate Manuel and wish him success in both adventures."

Oct. 7, 1943 - "Accepted for Service: We have been informed that the following Kinmundy men have been accepted for service and are now stationed in various camps: Woodrow WILKINSON, Thomas A. BOONE, Harry E. GRAY Jr., and Manuel WELSH." 

March 2, 1944 - "Mildred ATKINS Weds Pvt. Manuel WELSH" - "Mr. and Mrs. Orie ATKINS announce the marriage of their daughter, Miss Laura Mildred ATKINS to Pvt. Manuel Ralph WELSH, of Mt. Vernon, IL.  The ceremony was performed in Mineral Wells, Texas, on Feb. 19, at 8 p.m. by Rev. J.H. Burton.  Mrs. J.L. ALEXANDER of Chicago, Ill., attended the bride, and Pvt. Richard ZIECLER of Evanston, Ill., served as best man.  Other attendants were Mrs. Edward WEBER of Milwaukee, Wis., Pvt. Edward SULLIVAN of Chicago, Ill., and Mrs. J.H. BLURTON.  A wedding party was given the newlyweds at the Crazy Water Hotel, Mineral Wells, Texas."

May 4, 1944 - "Mr. and Mrs. Manuel WELSH Sr. have received a letter from their son, Manuel, who is now somewhere in England."

June 22, 1944 - "Here’s a V-Mail from Pvt. Manuel WELSH, who is overseas somewhere, but didn’t say just where.  He says: Well, here I am at last, I don’t know much to write, but I thought I would drop you a few lines.  Well, how are you folks back there, just fine I hope.  I am feeling fine and am getting bigger and fatter every day.  Mr. VALLOW, I would like to get the Kinmundy paper and I am sorry that I didn’t send you my address sooner, but just haven’t got around to it.  We sure have been busy over here.  I don’t get to write very much, only to my wife and folks.  My wife will pay you whatever the expense is for sending me the paper.  I guess my folks have already moved from Kinmundy.  I was sure sorry to hear they did, because I know they like it there and everyone was nice to them.  Even though they did move, I’m sure I will make my home there some time, because I sure would love to live there.  Well, I guess I had better close for I haven’t any more room."

June 29, 1944 - "Here’s another V-Mail from Pvt. Manuel WELSH, who is still in England.  He says: Just received the paper and thought I would write you a few lines to let you know how much I appreciate getting it.  I look forward to receiving it regular now.  It takes quite awhile for my mail to reach me sometimes.  I sure enjoy reading the letters that are in the paper from the boys in service, and I enjoy reading the Zatso column and I am sure the other boys feel the same way I do.  I sure do like it over here in England.  The people sure are nice to us.  I wish I could have been there for the banquet.  But maybe I can make it next year.  Well I guess I will close.  I want to thank you again for the paper."

July 13, 1944 - "Here’s one from Pvt. Manuel WELSH, who is also in France. He says: I haven’t written you in quite some time, so I thought I would drop you a few lines. Well, how is everything going at Kinmundy. Just fine I hope. Well here I am overseas in France now, so my APO number has changed, maybe my wife has already told you about it. I have been looking for some of the boys over here, but so far I haven’t any one, maybe I’ll run into one that I know some day. I doubt if you can make his letter out because I am writing it in a fox hole and it sure is hard to write. I sure did enjoy reading the paper while I was in England, and maybe it will catch up with me pretty soon over here. Well, I guess I had better close for now, so keep everything rolling back there."

Aug. 3, 1944 - "Again a shadow of gloom was cast over the entire community yesterday morning when a message was received by Mr. and Mrs. G.M. WELSH, from the War Department, stating their son, Pvt. Manuel WELSH, had been killed in action in France on July 4th.  As Mr. and Mrs. WELSH now reside in Flora, Mr. C.B. MENDENHALL, accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. George NEAVILL, delivered it to them.  Mr. and Mrs. WELSH came to Kinmundy immediately to be with their daughter-in-law in the Orie ATKINS home west of town. Pvt. Manuel Ralph WELSH was born in Coeta, Okla. November 30, 1923.  He came to Kinmundy with his parents in the summer of 1938.  He was graduated from the local high school with the class of '43.  He entered the service on October 15, 1943, and was assigned to the infantry.  He sailed for overseas duty on April 6, 1944, and was stationed in England until he entered France June 13th.  He was married to Miss Mildred ATKINS, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Orie ATKINS, residing west of this city, on Feb. 19, 1944.  This happy couple lived together as much as they could while Pvt. WELSH was stationed in the states.  At the present time, Mrs. WELSH is making her home here with her parents.  Mr. and Mrs. G.M. WELSH's address is General Delivery, Flora.  The whole community extends heartfelt sympathy to this good family."

Aug. 17, 1944 - "Memorial Held Sunday For Pvt. Manuel WELSH: Services were held Sunday afternoon in the Methodist Church in this city in memory of Pvt. Manuel WELSH, who was killed in action in France on July 4th. The church overflowing with relatives and friends and the large profuse of beautiful flowers were emblematical of the profound sorrow of the citizens of this community and the sympathy for the bereaved family. The services were conducted by Rev. Lisle E. MEWMAW, pastor. J. Harley HAYES, supt. of the local schools also made a few remarks regarding the life of this soldier as he knew him. Mrs. W.B. VALLOW and Mrs. J. N. VALLOW sang 2 songs with Mrs. Pauline JOHNSON at the instrument. Taps were sounded by Duane HANNA, S3 c, and members of the American Legion constituted the firing squad. It was truly a beautiful, but sad, service. But it was the only way in which the community had of paying tribute to the memory of one who gave his last full measure of devotion for his country. Manuel R. WELSH, only son of Mr. and Mrs. George Manuel WELSH, was born at Coweta, Okla. on Nov. 22, 1922. He graduated from Kinmundy H.S. with the class of ‘43, was noted for his ability in basketball, baseball, and other sport activities, and acted as assistant coach of the local elementary school in ‘42 and ’43. He was called for duty in the U.S. Armed Forces on Oct. 15, 1943. On Feb. 19, 1944 he married Miss Mildred ATKINS, who resides west of Kinmundy. In April 1944, he sailed for the overseas, entering France in June. It was there that he gave his life for his country on July 4, 1944. He was a young man of high character, respected and liked by his great number of friends. Great was the sacrifice he made for his loved ones at home. He is survived by his wife, Mildred, his parents, who now live in Flora, and 1 grandmother."

(V-302b) Manuel Welsh

"The Kinmundy Express" - June 3, 1948 - "The casketed remains of Pvt. Manuel WELSH arrived in Kinmundy Wednesday Wednesday night, May 26th, and lay in state in the Linton Funeral Home until the funeral hour.  Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 1:30 from the school gymnasium, Rev. Don HARGRAVE, of Patoka, officiating.  Interment was made in Evergreen Cemetery under the auspices of Kinmundy Post No. 519, American Legion.  A host of relatives and friends attended the services.  The large profuse of flowers helped to express the sympathy of the many friends this lad had made in the short span of time he was with us.  Pvt. WELSH entered the service Oct. 15, 1943, and sailed overseas in April 1944.  He was killed in action in France on July 4, 1944.  The body was interred  in the Blosville temporary military cemetery in France.  Manuel R., only son of Mr. and Mrs. George Manuel WELSH, was born in Coweta, Okla., on Nov. 30, 1922.  Manuel graduated fromt he Kinmundy High School with the class of '43.  He was noted for his ability in basketball and baseball and other sports activities.  He was assistant coach of the local elementary school in 1942 and 1943.  He was called for duty with the U.S. armed forces on Oct. 15, 1943.  On Feb. 19, 1944 at Camp Wolters he was united in marriage with Mildred ATKINS.  In April 1944, Manuel sailed for overseas, entering France in June.  It was there that he was killed July 4, 1944.  He was a young man of high character, respected and liked by his great number of friends.  Great was the sacrifice he made for his loved ones at home.  He is survived bu his parents who now live in Mt. Vernon, one grandmother, and other relatives and friends."