MILITARY FILES "ROLL OF HONOR" "Fayette County in the World War," Frederick Hanes, 1922
Lewis Calvin Crawford, son of Calvin and Rosetta Crawford, was born October 24, 1905 near Brownstown where he lived until he entered the service of his country May 8, 1917. He enlisted at Mattoon and was sent to Jefferson Barracks. Later he was transferred to a camp in Texas and thence to Jersey City, N. J., from where he crossed as a first class private of Co. K., 16th Infantry. His father having died several years previous, many a young man in his position would have pleaded that he must remain with his lonely mother. But whenever he spoke of going he would remark, "Mother, if I did not go and help win our freedom I would feel that I had no right to live here. I could not face the boys as they came home who had fought for me." Lewis was a Bible reader and before going expressed the desire to go across and if possible see the country where the Savior lived on earth. On the way across however, he contracted measles. Pneumonia followed. He was taken to Base Hospital No. 1, St. Naziarre, France where he died July 15, 1917, the first of the sons of Fayette county to give his life on French soil. His comrades buried him in a French cemetery but later removed the body to an American cemetery. At the request of his relatives the body was again disinterred and sent back to his homeland where it was laid to rest in Pilcher cemetery in the family lot. When the American Legion was organized in Fayette County the Vandalia Post was named The Crawford-Hale Post in honor of Private Crawford and Sergt. Edward B. Hale, Fayette County's first two sons to give their lives overseas for American ideals.
Sergeant Edward B. Hale, son of Thomas J. and Mary Hale, Was born in Avena township December 19, 1892. He grew to manhood on the farm of his parents where he also attended the public schools. He was a man of sterling character, a kind and obedient son, and an affectionate brother, always ready to do his part fit anything that was right At the early age of 20 years he entered the service of his country. He enlisted at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., January 27, 1913. He served as corporal with Co. I, 9th Infantry for a short time. He was transferred to Co. C, 23rd Inft., of which company he was appointed a sergeant. He served on the Mexican border with General Funsten and later under General Pershing. He went to France early in 1917. He was killed at Bar-le-duc France, April 6, 1918 by the premature explosion of a defective rifle grenade while giving instructions in their use. He would soon have received his commission as 2nd Lieutenant. In a letter to his mother Captain G. P. Hoppins of his company wrote: "Your son, Sergeant Hale, was recognized by all as the best non-commissioned officer in the company. He had the respect and confidence of all and his place cannot be filled. His death was a splendid sacrifice in the cause for which we are all fighting." In honor qf the service and sacrifice of this loyal son of Fayette county the Vandalia Post of the American Legion has perpetuated his name by calling their Post the Crawford-Hale Post, in honor of the first and second to give their lives overseas. His body was laid to rest in the American section of the military cemetery at Les Montharions, France, but later returned to lie in the sacred ground in the family burial lot. A brother, James H. Hale, is still in a government hospital suffering from disability received while serving with the 6th Marines. Who will say who has made the greater sacrifice, the one who lies at rest or the one who suffers still from the horrors of war? Truly the sacrifice of both as well as that of their family is great.
Reid E. Wells, son of Albert and Molly Wells, died Friday Sept. 27th, 1918, at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station. He had been home on furlough just two weeks previous to his death to see his brother, Clarence, before the latter left for Camp Forrest, Ga. Shortly after his return to camp he took a severe cold which developed into influenza and pneumonia from which he never recovered. The body reached home, accompanied by an escort, Sunday Sept. 30th. The funeral was held at Mt. Zion church the following afternoon conducted by Elder O. R. Nelson, assisted by Elder J. W. Shelton and the body was laid to rest in McInturff cemetery. His age at time of death was 22 years, 7 months and 9 days. He enlisted in the Navy May 21, 1918. He had completed his study and was on the training ship for experience.
Fred Stubblefield, the first Vandalia boy to make the supreme sacrifice in the great war, was born in Vandalia, Aug. 16, 1889, and lived here all of his life. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. John Stubblefield. A year previous to his entering federal service he was married to Miss Doris Stokes. Fred was a member of the Illinois National Guard for ten years and spent nine months with Company I, on the Mexican border. Having been mustered out of service he was drafted May 29th, 1918. At the time of his death he was a sergeant of Co. B, 3rd Inft. Replacement Regt. at Camp Gordon, Ga. Double pneumonia following influenza was the cause of death. His wife and baby who had been summoned to his bedside were with him to the end and accompanied the body home. Funeral services were held at the home of Mrs. Elizabeth Jackson Easterday, Rev. O. R. Nelson officiating. The pallbearers were six discharged and furloughed soldiers in uniform. *The Modern Woodmen of which he was an honored member attended in a body. That he was a good soldier is evidenced by the fact that he held the highest non-commissioned office after so short a period in the National Army. By proclamation of the mayor all houses of business were closed during the hour of the funeral.
Ora Campbell, son of William E. and Lizzie Campbell was born near Humboldt, Illinois, Oct. 14, 1899. Here he grew up to the age of twelve years attending school in Humboldt. His parents then moved to Duray, Missouri where Ora assisted his father with farm work. In 1914 the family moved back to Illinois and located near Vandalia where they have since resided. When the call for volunteers came Ora was employed on a farm near Mattoon at which city he enlisted for service Aug. 22, 1917, and was sent to Camp at Chattanooga, Tenn. In July 1918, he sailed for France with Company D, 17th Machine Gun Battalion. He saw much service at the front. At two different times, once for 42 days and again for 15 days he was in the thickest of the fighting. While in rest camp in October he contracted bronchial pneumonia which resulted in his death Oct. 29, 1918. In civil life Ora was a capable and respected young man, a regular attendant at the Baptist Sunday School. Those who were with him at the last reported to his mother that he gave out these comforting words, "I am ready to go."
Fred Rowland, oldest son of Henry and Maggie Rowland, was born at Waverly, Illinois, Sept. 30th, 1888. He removed with his parents to Fayette county when he was eight years old, where he received his education in the common schools and was a favorite among his playmates. He was married to Miss Ruth Stokes of Ramsey in 1913 and a little daughter, Genevieve, was born to gladden the home, who was five years old at the time of her father's death. The greater part of his life was spent on the farm and he was engaged in farming when he enlisted for service, Aug. 20, 1917, with Co. I, 130th Infantry. He was wounded in action on the 10th of October in the battle of Verdun and died a few hours later. His body was laid to rest with military honors in Glorieux Cemetery, Verdun, France. A brother, Chris, was also a member of Co. I, and a second brother William, served in the Navy.
Frank Augusta Dial, son of Charles and Ella Dial was born in Sefton township, Jan. 10, 1888. He was called to the colors May 22, 1918, and was a member of Company I, 37th Inft. At the time of his death he was stationed at Corpus Christi, Texas. During most of the time while in the service he was stationed at Brownsville, Texas. His death was due to a tropical storm which swept over Southern Texas in September. The camp site was inundated. On seeing the impending danger most of the men hastily left the camp and found points of safety. Others remained to save valuable records and the like. Private Dial was among these, and while the immediate incidents surrounding his death are not known it is believed he lost his life in trying to save the life of some one else as he was an expert swimmer. In early youth Private Dial united with the M. E. church removing his membership later to the Shiloh U. B. church near Weldon. He was known always as a Christian and exemplary young man. He was also a member of Weldon Lodge No. 922, I. O. O. F. He is survived by his father and mother, three brothers and four sisters as follows: Roll, Fred, Edward, Mrs. Ed Stinebring, Mrs. Lewis Sidwell, Mrs. Cecil Cronk, and Verna who is at home, also his fiancee, Miss Grace Odaffer, of Weldon, Illinois
Emil Wodtka was the son of John and Anna Wodtka of St. Peter, Illinois, and was born near Farina, Sept. 8, 1888. He was a baptized and confirmed member of St. John's Evangelical Church. He was educated in the common schools and followed farming. He was drafted into service in 1918 and left for Camp Zachary Taylor with the contingent of June 24th. Here he remained in training for active duty and would soon have been sent overseas but contracted influenza which was followed by pneumonia resulting in his death. His body was returned to his parents and laid to rest in St. John's Evangelical cemetery Oct. 6, 1918.
John P. Weakly, of St. Elmo, was the first Fayette county boy to give his life on German soil in the great war. Spinal meningitis was the direct cause of his death which occurred in Evacuation Hospital No. 49, at Coblenz, Germany, where he was serving in the Army of Occupation with Co. B, 59th Inft., 4th Div., May 27, 1919. The father of John Weakly was James Weakly deceased and his mother who survives is Mrs. Rossea Weakly. He was born in Shelby county, Illinois, Nov. 17, 1893. He was inducted into the service by the Fayette County Local Board, May 29, 1918, and sent along with other Fayette county boys to Camp Gordon, Ga. Later he was transferred to Camp Merrit, N. J., and on July 20th, sailed for England. He reached France August 9th, and was assigned to llth Co., 1st Inft., Tr. Reg. He served through hot fighting in the Battle of Vesle River, after which he was assigned to the 4th Division and served at the front for ten days on the Verdun sector. On being relieved by the French his organization was immediately sent to help in the great Meuse-Argonne offensive. Although he served in all 57 days on three battle fronts and in some of the greatest battles of the war he never received the slightest injury although on several occasions bullets passed through his clothing and pack. After serving for several months with the Army of Occupation he wrote his mother that he expected to be home soon but was at that particular time suffering from a stomach disorder. A message a few days later brought the sad news of his death. Weakly was a respected young man, a fine singer, a favorite among his many friends. When the St. Elmo Post of the American Legion was organized it was named the Weakly-Rowland Post to do honor to this valiant son of Fayette county and St. Elmo.
Irving Crook, son of Joel and Lurella Crook, was born at Tower Hill, Shelby county, Illinois, Nov. 21, 1892. His death which was caused by Spanish influenza and pneumonia came Oct. 9, 1918, at Camp Zachary Taylor, Ky. The father of the above died in July 1901 and a few years later the mother married W. L; Hebel of Tower Hill. Irving made his home with his stepfather and assisted him in farming as a boy, later farming with him jointly until the time of his marriage in December, 1917. At that time he was united in marriage to Miss Lottie Bolyard of near Ramsey. He was inducted into service June 25th, 1918, and left with the contingent of that date for Camp Zachary Taylor, Ky. Here he remained in training fitting himself for service overseas but was called to a greater service before the time set for his departure. Private Crook received his education in the common schools of Shelby and Fayette counties. He was a conscientious, upright young man, industrious and thrifty. At the time of his entering the service he was in the employ of Harry Mabry on his farm near Vandalia.
Fred James Hamilton was one of the contingent of Fayette county boys inducted into service by the Local Board on Sept. 18th, 1917. He with the others of his contingent were sent to Camp Zachary Taylor, Ky. After the necessary training had been had there he was sent overseas, serving throughout the war. He was then assigned to duty with the Army of Occupation with Battery B, 77th Field Artillery, 4th Division and was stationed at Kaiefenheim, Germany. He died in the Evacuation Hospital at Mayen, Germany, Feb. 19, 1919, and was buried in the National cemetery at that place. The body was returned to his home in the spring of 1920, and laid to rest in South Hill cemetery at Vandalia. The Crawford-Hale Post of the American Legion had charge of the burial and full military honors were accorded him.
Clifford G. Mattes, son of George C. and Mary O; Mattes, was born in Fayette county, Feb. 2, 1894, and died at Camp Mills, Long Island, New York, Oct. 22, 1918. Clifford spent all of his life on his father's farm where he was born, assisting his father in farming and also engaging in carpenter work whenever there was a time that the farm did not engage his entire time. Spare moments were always employed in reading of which he never seemed to tire. He was a regular attendant at the Union Sunday School in Shafter township and was treasurer of the Sunday School for several years. He was also a social member of the M. W. A. and took a lively interest in all of the affairs of the lodge. On June 22, 1918, he was called to the colors and entered the Sweeney Auto School at Kansas City. After completing the work there and receiving his diploma he was transferred to Camp Wheeler, Ga., and from there to Camp Mills for overseas duty. While here he fell a victim of influenza which developed into double pneumonia proving fatal. His mother reached his bedside before his death. He told her of his conversion while in camp at Macon, Ga., and rejoiced that he had seen the light and accepted Christ as his Savior. Again and again he would say: "I can't get through thanking God for what He has done for me, for now it would be too late." With ardent faith and a calm soul he entered the triumphant forces of his King. The body was returned to Vandalia and rests in the mausoleum at South Hill. Funeral services were conducted by Elder O. R. Nelson.
Edward Tate was born Jan. 20, 1896, near Vera, Illinois He received his education in the common schools of Fayette county and worked with his father on the farm. On reaching manhood he spent most of his time working at farm work in the northern part of the state. The year preceding his entry into the army he farmed for himself near Vera, but at the time of his entering the service was employed at the county farm by Supt. Kavanaugh. He answered his country's call and went to Camp Gordon, Ga., May 29th, 1918. After training there for six weeks he went overseas and served at the front during most of the time until the close of the war, being with Co. L, 59th Inft. He died in a hospital in France with pneumonia Nov. 18, 1918. His body was returned to the United States and arrived at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Tate on Thanksgiving Day 1920, and was laid to rest in the Lawler cemetery just a short distance from his home.
Private Joseph L. Severns, Hq. Co., 5th Bn., 22nd Engineers was the son of Lycurgus W. and Rachel E. Severns of near Brownstown. He was born Dec. 11, 1890, one mile east of Brownstown on the National Road. He spent most of his time at home until about a year before he was called into the service. He was then employed by the Turner Produce Co. and worked at their Vandalia branch until two weeks previous to his enlistment, spending the time intervening visiting relatives. Private Severns left Vandalia with the second contingent from Fayette county for Camp Zachary Taylor, Ky. From there he was transferred to Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indianapolis, leaving thence for Hoboken, N. J., from which port he sailed for France Sept. 15, 1918, on the U. S. S. Calamores. On the way over he contracted influenza which developed into bronchial pneumonia. Death came when the ship lay at anchor on the Bay at Brest. Before death he requested his major to send his body back, which request was complied with, the body arriving at Hoboken, Oct. 12, 1918 and at Brownstown five days later. Thence it was laid to rest in Maplewood Cemetery at St. Elmo. Joseph was a member of the Christian church of Brownstown and remained faithful to his Christian obligations. He attended school at Bunker Hill country school. Here he showed the aggressive spirit that characterized him in later years by entering heartily into all sports.
John E. Reiss, son of Henry and Pauline Reiss, was born Aug. 26, 1886 on a farm near St. Peter, Illinois, died Oct. 17, 1918 at Camp McArthur, Waco, Texas, of Lobar pneumonia. John With the rest of his brothers and sisters assisted his parents on the farm until 1910 when the family moved to St. Peter where his parents conducted a hotel and he learned the barber trade. He followed this trade until -the time of his entrance in the army, having in connection with his barber shop a line of drugs also. He was called to the colors May 24, 1918, and sent to Jefferson Barracks, Mo. Later he was transferred to Camp Stanley, Texas, and again to Camp McArthur. He was a member here of Co. G, Dev. Bn. It was here he contracted Spanish influenza and was sent to the base hospital. Pneumonia developed and death ensued a few days later. The body was sent home to his mother and laid to rest in the St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran cemetery. John was a Christian young man of sterling character. He was a member of the Lutheran Church of St. Peter, having been baptized in infancy and confirmed there in early childhood. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Pauline Reiss, two brothers, and seven sisters. His father died in 1915.
Private William E. Rothe was born at St. Peter, Illinois, Dec. 21, 1888, where his parents, Henry Rothe and Winnie Rothe, were engaged in farming. William was educated both in English and German at the Lutheran parochial school in St. Peter. When he grew to manhood he also engaged in farming and upon entering the service left behind a young wife to wait for the day of his return, which day never came until his body was returned to be laid to rest in his native soil more than two years after his death. He was of the draft contingent of June 24, 1918, to Camp Taylor. He died of bronchial pneumonia in Camp Hospital No. 1 France, Oct. 8, 1918, being attached at the time of his death to Co. H, 22nd Engineers.
Almy Bryant King was the son of Robert and Anna King and was born in Loudon township February 28, 1891. In early life he attended public school and helped about the farm, which occupation he followed when grown to manhood. He was one of the contingent leaving for camp June 24, 1918. After a short stay at Camp Zachary Taylor, Ky., he was transferred to Camp McClellan, Ala. He was a member of Bat. C, 34th Field Artillery. Here at Camp McClellan he contracted pneumonia which proved fatal Oct. 21, 1918. Funeral services were held at the Mt. Zion cemetery Sunday afternoon Oct. 27th, conducted by Rev, D. F. Burrus. Private King professed faith in His Saviour early in life and lived a consistent and upright life. His parents had preceded him in death, but there were left to mourn their sad loss his young wife, formerly Miss Pearl Smith, two sisters, Mrs. Edith Ricket and Mrs. Plenisha Matson, two half-sisters, Mrs. May Brown and Mrs. Nevada Logue, and two half-brothers, John and Nolen.
Although less than nineteen years of age at the time of his death the subject of this sketch met death in battle. In May, 1917, he enlisted in Co. I. 130th Inft. It was with that organization that he was serving when he came to his untimely end at the front. With his lieutenant, Merlin Dappert, he was advancing in the line north of Consenvoye near the Bois-de-Chaume on the morning of Oct. 10, 1918. The artillery barrage proved ineffective and they encountered a machine gun nest. They lay down to escape the machine gun barrage when an Austrian 88 exploded nearby killing four members of the squad and wounding George and two others. George's wound resulted in his death in the hospital four days later. He is survived by his father, Charles Smith, a brother, Jesse, and a sister, Effie. His mother and a sister, Vonita, preceded him in death. The body was returned to his father and funeral services held in the Christian church at Brownstown, Feb. 19, 1921. The services were conducted by the American Legion assisted by Rev. R. R. Finlayson, pastor of the church.
William Henry Anderson, First Class Private, son of William and Eliza L. Anderson, was born near Bayle City, Illinois, Sept. 13th, 1892. Here he grew to manhood assisting his father on the farm and attending the public school nearby. He entered the services of his country with the contingent that left Vandalia for Camp Taylor on June 24, 1918. He was later transferred to the, 4th Co., 15th Veterinary Hospital Unit at Camp Lee, Virginia. His company was detained from going overseas because of quarantine for measles. During this time he was stricken with Spanish influenza which developed into pneumonia. After an illness of fifteen days he died at the Base Hospital, Camp Lee, Virginia. His body was sent home to his parents and laid to rest in Pope cemetery near Bingham, Oct. 28, 1918. William was of a cheerful and hopeful disposition, always ready to be of service to those in need. He was a devoted follower of his Saviour whom he accepted in the fall of 1917 and Whom he faithfully followed to the end.
Private Elza L. Willis, of Co. I, 130th Inft, son of Henry and Rachel Willis, was born near Louisville, Illinois, March 3, 1893. He enlisted in Co. I, 4th Illinois Inft, at Vandalia July 19, 1917. Death came as the result of wounds received at Forges Woods, France on October 6, 1918. He was buried in an American cemetery one-half kilometer east of Senon Court (Meuse) but the body was later returned to his parents and laid to rest in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Effingham, Illinois
Jesse Walter Morris was born in Avena township, Sept. 26, 1887. He was the son of W. M. and Elizabeth Morris. From early childhood till the time of his death he lived near Loudon in Loudon township. Death was due to lobar pneumonia, following Spanish influenza which he contracted at Camp Taylor, Kentucky. He was a member of Battery F, 5th Regiment, F. A. R. D. His lieutenant writing his father from Camp Taylor under date of Nov. 1, 1918 says: "I personally regret the sad death of your brave son who gave his life for his country just the same as if he had died on the battle field of France. He was a faithful and obedient soldier and his death is regretted by all who came in contact with him."
Charles Cook was born March 24, 1895, in Seminary township, his parents being John and Emma Cook of near Mulberry Grove. From childhood when he became old enough to help on the farm he spent his time either attending the public school or assisting his father on the farm. When he reached maturity he continued in his chosen calling and was farming at the time he was drafted into service in Sept. 1918. At that time he was inducted into service and sent to Camp Custer, Michigan. Here it was his privilege to serve only a few days more than one month when he fell a victim to the dread Spanish influenza and bronchial pneumonia of which he died Oct. 14, 1918. He left his young wife, Elizabeth Cook, and a little six-months-old daughter, Myrtle, besides his parents and many friends.
Carl Jackson was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Jackson of Brownstown. He was born in Clark County, Illinois, Nov. 23, 1893. Died after a four week's illness of pneumonia at Base Hospital, Camp Dodge, Iowa, April 19, 1918. The body was laid to rest at South Hill Cemetery, Vandalia. In April 1916, he left home and went to the Northwest and took a claim but later settled in Iowa where he was engaged in farming at the time of his enlistment. He enlisted at Orange City, Iowa, Jan. 23, 1918, and was assigned to Hqr. Troops, 88th Div. N. A. Carl finished his common school education at the age of 14 and then took, one year of high school work. He was a fine young man, loved by all and made friends wherever he went. In Sept. 1918, he was home for a short visit with his parents and friends. During his sickness his father and mother visited him. He bore his illness patiently, always looking on the brightest side. He is survived by his father, mother, five brothers and five sisters.
Howard Glen Lawler was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Lawler. He was born near Vanburensburg in Sharon township, Dec. 10, 1887. He was inducted into service on June 13, 1918, and left the following day with twelve other boys for Kansas City, Mo., for technical training in Rahey's Auto Army School. Since having measles more than eight years before he had never known a well day but was subject to nervous spells of great intensity. It was one of these which occurred after he arrived at Kansas City that resulted in his untimely death. He had followed farming all his life, was a lover of fine stock and especially nice horses. He was especially gifted as a mechanic which fact was responsible for his being sent to train as an auto mechanic. The funeral was held from the Methodist church in Vandalia, conducted by Rev. Smith of Hagarstown, assisted by Rev. W. I. Terhune, of Vandalia.
John Preston Janes, son of Thomas and Jemima Janes, was born in Flat Branch township, Shelby County, Illinois, Dec. 22, 1894, where he lived on the farm with his parents until sixteen years of age when they moved to Fayette county. He enlisted in the U. S. N. at Chicago, Dec. 13, 1917, as a third class fireman at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station. Here he became a victim of influenza which developed into pneumonia of which he died Sept. 14, 1918. He was buried at South Hill Cemetery, Vandalia, Sept. 18, 1918. He was a member of the Baptist Church of Vera and a respected young man.
Ferdinand Federman, son of Gustave and Katie Federman, was born near Vera, January 17, 1896, and died in the service of his country at Camp Custer, Michigan, Oct. 12, 1918. He was at the time of his death a member of the Headquarters Troops of the 14th Division. His illness was of short duration but of great intensity from the beginning. His mother and his cousin, Miss Mabel Hoffman, a municipal nurse of St. Louis, were at his bedside when the end came. He professed faith in Christ as his Saviour in 1913, and united with the German Baptist Church of which he was a faithful member until his death. "Ferdie," as he was familiarly called, was of a cheerful disposition. "To know him was to love him," could be truthfully said of him. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. O. R. Nelson at the German Baptist church of which he was a member. The casket, draped with the flag for which he died was borne to the Hoffman cemetery and laid to rest by the side of his father. He is survived by his mother, two sisters, Mrs. Frankie Wollerman and Mrs. Violet Federman, and an aged grandfather.
Clarence Charles Marks, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Marks was born at Hindsdale, Illinois, July 26, 1895. He came to this county with his parents when he was eleven years old and has since made this his home. He was one of the contingent of 200 to leave for Camp Taylor, June 24, 1918, several of whom were never again to see home because of the dread influenza. He was later transferred to Camp McClellan, Ala., and assigned to Headquarters Company of the 34th F. A. Here he fell a victim to influenza and pneumonia Sept. 26, 1918. His body was returned and buried in Bethlehem cemetery. He left besides his other near relatives, his young wife a bride of only a few months to mourn his early going.
Wendell Causey, the eldest son of George W. and Mary P. Causey was born in this county March 27, 1896. He was reared on the farm and worked on the farm and attended the public school where he received his education. When his country called he volunteered for service and enlisted with Co. I, 130th U. S. Infantry. He left Vandalia in September 1917, for Camp Logan, Texas. There he contracted bronchial pneumonia and died Feb. 4, 1918. The body was brought home and laid to rest in McInturff cemetery, Feb. 10, 1918. Wendell was a young man of sterling worth, respected and loved. He was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, in the work of which order he took an active part.
Floyd Harold Wright was the son of James M. Wright of Bear Grove township. He was born near Mulberry Grove, April 15th, 1897. Prior to his enlistment he was an employee of the Illinois Pipe Line Company. He was drafted and sent to Camp Forest, Ga., Sept. 11, 1918. He was later transferred to Camp Merrit, New Jersey, and left for overseas Oct. 29, 1918. After being in France for only a short time he contracted pneumonia which proved fatal. At the time of his death he was a member of Company E, 116th Engineers and was stationed at St. Naziaire, France. He was buried in American Base Cemetery No. 21, Grave 499, Plot F. The body was returned to his home and was buried in Bethlehem Cemetery in Bear Grove township, October 1920.
Clarence A. Tedrick was born in Seminary township, September 3rd, 1895. His parents are Isham and Mary E. Tedrick. He was raised on the farm and followed that occupation until the time of his entering the service. He was in the September contingent, 1918, and was sent to Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Michigan. On Oct. 28th, he died there having contracted pneumonia. The body was returned and buried in Seminary cemetery. A sad fact in connection with his death was the death of his young wife who on having been notified of his illness left immediately for Camp Custer. While there she also contracted influenza and died two days after the death of her husband. She was formerly Miss Lucy M. Revis. He was a private in the 4th Company, 154th Bn., 160th Depot Brigade.
Delmer Wehe, the son of J. W. and Mary Wehe, was born in Farina, Sept. 2, 1892, died Nov. 22, 1918. At the time of his entering the service he was employed as a fireman at a coal mine in Hudson, Wyoming. He was drafted in June 1918, and sent to Camp Lewis, Washington. From there he was sent to Camp Perry, California and was later sent to New Jersey. After remaining there a short time he was sent across. He was first a member of Headquarters Company, 160th Infantry. Soon after landing in France he was transferred to Headquarters Detachment, 162 Field Artillery Brigade. At the time of his death he was a member of Company F, 317th Infantry. As to the details of the manner of his death nothing is known, his parents having only been notified of his death. He was buried in the American Cemetery, Brizeaux, France. The body will be returned home.
Pearl T. Cowgill was born near Hanson, Jan. 18, 1892. His parents were John I. Cowgill, deceased, and Margaret M. Cowgill. He was raised on a farm and received his education in the country schools of Fayette County. At the time of his entering the service he was employed on a farm near Adaza, Iowa. He was sent first to Camp Gordon, Ga., was later transferred to Camp Merritt, New Jersey and sailed for France on or about Sept. 19, 1918. He landed in Brest and was taken from the transport ill with bronchial pneumonia and died at Base Hospital No. 65, Kerhuon near Brest, Oct. 5, 1918. He was buried at Lambzellec cemetery a few miles from Brest. The body has never been returned.
The subject of this sketch was born June 25, 1893, in Wilberton township. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. B. M. Gelsinger. He was a farmer by occupation. When the call came for volunteers at the time of America's entering the war he enlisted in Company I July 24, 1917. He received his first training at Camp Houston, Texas. He was killed in action on the French front Oct. 10, 1918, in the same battle in which Ivory Bush and Chesser Brown also of Company I, were killed. He is survived by his parents and by ten sisters and two brothers.
William Marion Rhodes, who was the son of Jacob and Mary Rhodes, of near Beecher City entered the service of his country through the selective service and was sent to Camp Custer, Michigan. After being in training here only a short time he fell a victim of Spanish influenza and died there Oct. 19th, 1918, at the age of 21 years.
Claud Watson, the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Watson of Shobonier, and whose real name was Claud Pettit, as he was the son of Mrs. Watson by a former husband, entered the service of his country in the National Army and after a short period of training in this country was sent overseas. He died of disease in France, his mother not knowing of his death until she saw his name in the casualty list.
Edgar E. Bulka, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Bulka of Hurricane township, was one of the first draft contingent to leave here and was a private in the Infantry. After a short period of training in this country he was sent overseas and saw service on the French front. Here he was wounded in action and died of his wounds August 6th, 1918. He is survived by his father and mother, three brothers and three sisters.
August Henry Stolte was the youngest son of Frederick and Sophia Stolte. He was born in Shelby county, Sept. 14, 1890, died Oct. 29, 1918, at Camp Custer, Michigan of pneumonia. He entered the services of his country at Camp Custer in the National Army,. Sept. 6, 1918. On July 12th, 1918, he was married to Miss Lena May Craig of St. James who together with an infant daughter, Fern Annabell, is left. August was baptized in infancy at St. Paul Lutheran Church at Strasburg, Illinois He was a dutiful son, a kind brother and a loving husband. He was a member of Camp 2354 Modern Woodman of America at St. James.
John Jacob Bauerle was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bauerle of Hurricane township. Entered the services of his country as a member of the National Army in 1918. He was sent to Camp Custer, Michigan, where he contracted influenza which proved fatal Oct. 16th, 1918. The body was returned to his parents and the funeral held at the home. He was 24 years of age.
Ivory Bush was one of the Company I boys who saw service on the border. When Company I was preparing for service in the World War he re-enlisted and was a loyal and brave member of the same. He lost his life on the French front Oct. 10, 1918, being killed in action. His parents both having died, he made his home with his uncle, Willard Jolly, of Seminary township until the time of his entering the service.
Walter R. Bolds was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. W. Bolds. He was born in Sefton township, Sept. 27,. 1892. He entered the service of his country as a volunteer at Champaign, Illinois. It was not his privilege to see overseas service for he was one of the many victims of influenza and pneumonia, which disease he contracted while in a camp in New York. His body was sent home to relatives and the funeral held at Old Liberty Church in Sefton township. He is survived by his father, G. W. Bolds, three brothers, Wesley, Everett and Wyley and three sisters, Myrtle, Ruth and Almeda. His mother died in January 1900.
Benjamin Humes, private, Co. I, 346th Infantry, son of Peter and Mary Humes, was born May 16th, 1888, on a farm near Patoka and died at Camp Pike, Ark., Dec. 17th, 1917, aged 29 years, 6 months and 1 day. Sept. 19th, 1917, he in company with other young men left his home for Camp Taylor, Kentucky. After nearly three months of intensive training he was transferred to Camp Pike, Ark., and on the 17th day of December word was received of his death. His body arrived December 19th after an absence of three months. To leave home in the prime of life for a training camp and return three months later, alone and silent in death is one of the vicissitudes of life which no human being can foretell or change. His body rests near his loved ones in the little cemetery at Patoka, Illinois.
John W. Sidwell, private, Co. M, 119th Infantry, son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Sidwell, was born April 4th, 1895, near Brownstown, Illinois, and was killed in action August 27th, 1918. The circumstances related to his death seemed to indicate that he was struck by machine gun bullets. The young man grew up to manhood on the farm. His life's hopes were high and he always hoped to be able to serve his country, little thinking that he was destined to render the highest service possible for men to give. He left Vandalia with a contingent of drafted men for Camp Taylor, Kentucky, February 22nd, 1918. He sailed from the United States in June 1918 as a member of the 119th Infantry of the 30th Division. He was buried temporarily near where he fell and later his body was sent to the United States for permanent burial arriving April 16th, 1921. The funeral took place Sunday April 17th, with full military honors, and his body now lies at rest in the Pilcher cemetery near the home of his boyhood.
Elmer Summerlot was born August 28th, 1902, in Kaskaskia township. He with his parents moved to Otego township. Here Elmer grew up to young manhood. Most of his schooling was received at Four Mile Prairie. He like many other young men felt the call of his country and gave up his place in civil life to take his position in the ranks. Here he served faithfully and well, until, in answer to the summons of the Great Commander, he joined the Army of the Dead, November 6th, 1918, at Nitro West, Va. His life was short in years but he made the supreme sacrifice while in line of duty and his name will be among those whose sacrifice made possible the safety and strength of our Nation and whose example will inspire the future generations to deeds of valor and patriotism.
Clarence E. Lawler, the son of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Lawler was born in Fayette county, July 3, 1887. During his school days he attended the Bluff City school. He assisted his father on the farm and later engaged in that calling for himself. He left Vandalia with the July 10th contingent 1918. He showed an aptitude as a soldier and soon attained the rank of corporal. He went overseas in September 1918, and was attached to a labor battalion. Death was due to pneumonia which he contracted while at Brest. He was laid to rest in the cemetery at Brest and his body was returned to his people and placed for its final rest in Bear Creek cemetery in February 1921. Crawford-Hale Post of the American Legion had charge of the services and buried him with military honors.
Albert Goodman was the son of Jefferson and ah Goodman. He was born near Hagarstown, Illinois, March 1891. He spent most of his life in Fayette county where he attended the public schools and on arriving at manhood engaged in farming. On Feb. 23, 1918, he left Vandalia with the contingent of that date for Camp Taylor. He was later transferred to Camp Sevier, S. C., and was there assigned to Co. L, 119th Infantry, 30th Division. He sailed for France in June 1918, where his organization was assigned to the British army. He was killed in action at Ypres, Aug. 31, 1918. His body was returned to his parents in May 1921.
Carter Harrison Sears was born at Bingham, Ill. in 1895. At the age of five years he was left motherless. The father then took his three little sons and one daughter and for a short time they made their home with W. S. Sears, the grandfather of Carter. The children were placed in the Vandalia schools. Unfortunately at this period in their life the father died and they were left with no means of support. Carter was then 15 years old. Making his grandfather's home his home he went to work and worked wherever work was to be found until the war. He enlisted in the autumn of 1917 and was sent overseas in the spring of 1919. He was wounded by shrapnel and the wound apparently healed. He continued to suffer, however, from rheumatism and was invalided home. Arriving at New York his ailment became more malicious and death ensued a short time later. He is reported to have fallen from his bed striking a bath tub which so affected the old wound that death followed soon after. He is survived by two brothers, Clinton and Roscoe and one sister, Mrs. U. S. Meyer of Bingham.
James Henry Bush was born in Jasper county, Illinois, Sept. 24, 1889, and died at Camp Merritt, N. J., December 10, 1918. James Henry, who was a brother of Ivory Bush, who lost his life at the front enlisted in Iowa in July 1918. He with his brother was raised by W. C. Jolly near Shobonier. After enlisting in the army he showed the same devotion to the task before him that characterized him in his work on the farm and frequently wrote to his foster father, Mr. Jolly, of his work with the rifle. He soon became known as a fine rifle shot and won honors in his company in marksmanship. The cause of his death was bronchial pneumonia. The body was returned and laid to rest in Shiloh cemetery at Willow Hill, Illinois, near the place of his birth, December 14, 1918.
Chesser W. Brown was born near Springfield, Illinois, March 15, 1899, the son of W. F. and Clara B. Brown. Only one year of his life was spent in Fayette county, when he with his parents lived on a farm belonging to his grandfather, Robert Blankenship of near Jimtown. At the end of that time, 1912, the family moved to Paragould, Arkansas, where they still reside. When the call came for volunteers in the late war Chesser was anxious to join the colors and took his father into his confidence. After being unable to enlist at home owing to the absence of the recruiting officer he came to the home of his grandparents in Fayette county and enlisted in Company I, 130th Infantry. He met his death while bravely facing the enemy at the front in France, Oct. 10, 1918, in the same engagement in which Eugene Gelsinger and Ivory Bush, also members of Company I, were killed. The body was later returned and laid to rest in the Britton cemetery near Springfield. He is survived by his father and mother, three brothers and seven sisters. A brother, Don P. Brown, who was drafted from Cass county, Illinois, died in camp at Vancouver, Washington, of bronchial pneumonia complicated with scarlet fever Aug. 6, 1918.
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