| Newspaper | Cassville Republican |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, Dec. 19, 1918 |
| Headline | Captain Gives An Account of Death Of Hal Irwin |
| Text | In a letter to Mr. And Mrs. Geo. Irwin of near Cassville, Captain Maxwll of the 360th Infantry tells of the death of their son, Hal Angus Irwin, who was killed in action in France Sept. 12. The letter which pays a high tribute to Hal and shows that he had a bright future before him in the military service follows: Headquarters Co. 360th Infantry American E. F. 17 Nov. 1918 My Dear Mr. And Mrs. G. E. Irwin: I am in receipt of your letter of October 21st regarding the death of your son, Sgt. Hal A. Irwin, and wish to apologize for not having written you sooner. The reason is that I have been almost constantly on the front since Sept. 12, and our records being in the rear, it was impossible for me to get your address. Your son was killed by a German shell on the morning of Sept. 12, just outside of the dugout in which he had his observation post. He had left the safety of this dugout for the purpose of going to telephone to the Artillery Commander the location of some enemy batteries. He courageously left his shelter in the face of very heavy shell fire, because it was his duty to do so and he paid the Supreme Sacrifice. He was truly one of Natures Noblemen, always something pleasant to say and a smile for all which endeared him to the hearts of the officers and men in the Company. He had been recommended by Lieut Williams to attend the officers training camp, and would have been recommended for same at the first opportunity as his loyalty and untiring efforts in the intelligence section had won him this privilege. He died immediately, not suffering and was buried by men of his Company near where he fell, and a short service was held over his remains by a comrade, Pvt. Luther L. Stikeleather. It may interest you to know that we had a service this morning in which our Regiment took part in Commemoration of our heroes, of which he was surely one. I want you to know that the officers and men of this Company grieve and mourn with you in your great loss and if there is anything that I can do I will deem it a favor if you will advise. Most sincerely, J. W. MAXWELL, Commanding Hdq. Co. |
| Resource | Cassville Republican, Thursday, Dec. 19, 1918 |
| Submitted by | Gina Easley |
Return to Return to |