World War I Letters
Newberry County, South Carolina
Genealogy Trails
data gathered and contributed by Edith Greisser
Will Anderson colored died in Brest France 7/21/1918. His body was brought home from Brest France and interred in the cemetery of St. John’s in Newberry encased in a large metal casket. He was 28 years old, a private in Co. C, 303 stevedores and was survived by a wife. Observer 7/23/1920, p8
NAVAL TRAINING STATION, NEWPORT RHODE ISLAND 
| George Earhardt
photo courtesy of Derryll Satterwhite | George B. Earhardt of Co. I, Regt. 7, USN, 18 years old son of John W. Earhardt wrote home to his father:
August 4, 1918
It is Sunday so we do not have any drilling or work today. I still remember fondly all the good times spent in Newberry in the office. I am getting along fine and like the navy life although there is much more work to do here than in Newberry. I am in the best of health and getting fat, having gained six pounds already. We left Columbia on a Wednesday and arrived at Newport Rhode Island on Friday. We stopped over in Washington a few hours for breakfast and then laid over in NY for about eight hours, waiting for a boat. We set sail 5:30 pm from NY and arrived at Newport 6am next day. It took so long because of the enemy submarines in the local waters and we had to go around and take heavy precautions. Where I am stationed there is a cool breeze blowing all the time and every kind of amusement and sport that a sailor boy could want. There are about 15,000 sailors here right now and more coming every day with a similar amount shipping out daily. There is a fine YMCA building up here with a movie theater, basketball court and pool tables, all free. Your uniform is your pass. Then there is the Knights of Columbus Hall, which is similar to the YMCA, having movies, boxing matches, wrestling matches and other amusements every night. They gave us three suits of white clothes, two suits of blues, three suits of underwear, two blankets, two pairs of shoes, a pair of leggings, a swimming trunk, a jersey, nine pairs of socks, three towels, a toothbrush and paste, comb and military brushes, four white hats, a sea going blue hat, a neckerchief, a needle and two spools of thread, scissors, a pair of boots, soap and a pea Jacket. We get up at 5 am and have 10 minutes to lash our hammocks (we sleep in hammocks about 8 feet from the floor) and then muster for roll call. Then everyone takes a cold shower. At 7 am we march to chow, take a plate and utensils and march by the serving table as the mess-men pile the food on our plates. They feed us good here. We have ice cream every Sunday, compliments of the mother of Harry Thaw who lives in sight of the ship. We then drill from 8 am to 12 noon and stop for dinner and then drill until 3 pm. Then we are off until 9:30 pm, which is bedtime. My best wishes that the Observer will continue to flourish with you as its editor, Love, George B. Earhardt Observer 8/9/1918, page 1
George B. Earhardt 81 years old son of John Wolfe and Jessie Copeland Earhardt, died 7/26/1981 at the Newberry Convalescent Center. He worked as a printer 60 years for the Newberry Observer. Surviving were his siblings Mrs. Holland (Elizabeth) Huffman Sr., Mrs. I. Marion Satterwhite Sr. and J. W. Earhardt Jr. all of Newberry SC and Mrs. Glenn (Jessie Lee) Kluttz of Marion NC. Burial was in the Springdale section of Rosemont Cemetery. Whitaker Funeral Home was in charge.
Thomas P. CromerOctober 5, 1918 Dear Sister, As I have nothing to do this afternoon except lie on my cot, I will write you a few lines to let you know how I am getting along. I guess you have received my card telling you I had been wounded, but it is nothing serious. I think if nothing happens I will be able to go back to the lines in a few weeks, as I can walk a little now. Hattie, every letter I get from you - you ask if I am getting your letters and to let you know. I tell you in every letter I write when I received your last letter and if you will look on these cards that I send home you will see on them it has been about two weeks now since I heard from you. Hattie, I would like to tell you all about the battle but you know that is against army rules but I will say I saw the first man in our company killed. He and I were standing about eight feet apart when he was killed. The same shell that got him – a piece of it got me. I was in only two and a half days of the fight and the noise was just like thunder all the time. The day I left the company all the rest of the Newberry boys were all right. I haven’t heard of anything about them since. Hattie, You should have seen our boys swimming the canal right at the German line. They jumped in the water over their heads just like it wasn’t over knee deep and went right on across. They would make you think of boys after a rabbit. Well I guess I will close. My address is the same. Write soon. Love, Brother in France Observer 11/5/1918, page 5
McClennansville SC August 12, 1917 Dear Mr. Wallace, (News editor) I was turned down by the war department for the present. But finding that these people needed a doctor and thinking that I ‘could do my bit’ by coming here, thereby releasing a younger man for service who might be influenced to come here, I decided to try it for awhile. The people have been very nice to me here and I am well pleased so far. I am doing a general practice and am kept on the go all the time. This is the place that was well nigh wiped out by that West Indian hurricane last July but the crops are unusually fine this year and should put all of those hit hard last year on their feet again. They make mostly sea-island cotton and of course get a fine price for it. There has also been quite a bit of money made by these people on potatoes this year. We had a fine rain about once every week since I have been here. Brother Gobe Smith, who had charge of the West End Methodist Church last year, is located here and has been instrumental in making it very pleasant for me. Kindly let me have my Observer here for the present. I see there has been an effort to have the war department change the age limit for doctors, hence I may get my chance yet to help the boys in the trenches.
Kindly and cordially yours, Dr. J. Alex MeldauObserver 8/17/1917, p8
Joshua Ward Motte Simmons , Ensign, died during service in WW1 with burial at Rosemont Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
George Adams Shealy, Seaman, died during service in WW1 with burial in Mt. Pilgrim Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
| Ernest M. Longshore of the 2nd Corps Mobile veterinary Hospital died of pneumonia in France 10/17/1018. He was 27 years old and was buried in France within sight of the Atlantic Ocean. His body arrived in Newberry on 7/11/1921. The funeral was from Baxter’s Funeral Home and burial was in Smyrna Presbyterian Church cemetery. The American Legion were the honor guards. Observer 7/15/1921, p1 |
Lieut. Furman B. Longshore
only son of E. H. Longshore died in France in the latter part of January from pneumonia. His father did not know he was sick prior to receiving news of his death. He was born in Newberry County and five years ago he and his father moved to Abbeville SC to run a Ford Motor Dealership. When the war broke out, he and some friends went to Laurens and enlisted, becoming members of Butler’s Guards. After initial training he was sent to Fort Gordon for officers training where he graduated and was commissioned as a second Lieut. He was then sent to France and in one battle all the officers in his company were killed and he assumed command and led the men to battle. That gallantry won for him the Croix de Guerre. He was promoted to 1st Lieut. while serving in France. At the time of his death his company was on the Rhine, forming part of the army of occupation.
He did his duty and did it well. Observer 2/21/1919, p4February 16, 1919
Eugene H. Longshore
Dear Mr. Longshore, Your son’s death of pneumonia at Brest was a shock to all of us who knew him and loved him. He was a brave soldier, trustworthy and dependable at all times and under all conditions, no matter how trying. So we admired him as a soldier and loved him as a man for his unfailing good humor and fine even temper. It was particularly hard not to be able to bring him back to you after we got to the boat. And it is hard to think of a gallant officer fighting his way through Chateau-Thierry and then through all the months with us only to succumb to pneumonia on the eve of sailing home. We were even denied the privilege of being present at his funeral which was held with military honors as we were embarking. He is buried in the military cemetery outside of Brest at a little town called Tambezelic. Your son often spoke to me of you and I know that the tie between you was particularly close. You have my sincerest sympathy and that of all the officers of this battalion who knew and loved your son. Sincerely, John H. Clark Jr. Captain, 369 Inf. USA Commanding 2nd BN Observer 2/28/1919, p5 Although he was born and raised in Newberry SC Furman B. Longshore was officially from Abbeville SC and because of this his name is not on the WW1 Memorial Tablet in Newberry SC. According to an article written in the Observer 2/5/1924, p4, his body was brought to America and he was re-interred in Arlington Cemetery.
L. Keister Counts
married Miss Agnes Long on 11/17/1921 at Mt. Tabor Parsonage officiated by Rev J. B. Harman.
photo - Levi Keister Counts 1892-1977
photo courtesy of Caroly & Jim Kibler |  |
C. M. Huggins
a disabled veteran of WW1 was in the National Sanitorium at Johnson City TN. His wife and two children were at the home in Newberry SC. The wife and oldest child came down with the measles and the baby had pneumonia. The Red Cross secured a nurse for the family. The mother and older child recovered but the baby succumbed to its illness. In the meantime the husband was able to travel home and found two nurses alternating in the care of his family. He was only able to pay the one nurse $35. The other nurse was paid through funds of the American Red Cross. Sixty days later he was placed in vocational training in the Newberry machine shops by the Veterans’ Bureau. It was necessary for him to return to the National Sanitorium but he hoped to return to Newberry in the near future. Observer 4/13/1923, p1
Jacob Omerle Singley
Seaman, died during service in WW1 with burial at sea. A memorial to his memory was placed in the family lot of St. Paul’s Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
Robert L. Hutchinson
Butchery Co. 342nd APO 752 Nov. 24, 1918 My Dear Mother, I received three letters from you today. Sure was glad to hear from you. It was the first that I had received in about ten days. I also received one from ___. Sure was glad to hear everyone was well. I will write her a card in a few days. She sure did write to me a nice letter. She told me she had been to see you on the Saturday before. I also received the letter you sent me on the 24th and the Herald too. I enjoyed reading them. Yes, I noticed in the Observer that Ernest Dickert had landed over here. He came very near missing the trip to over here. And you did get some mail from me at last. You said you had a card from Herbert. What did he have to say? Sure would like to run across him. Will write to him in a few days. Ola said you had sent the pony up to the place. I think that was the wisest thing to do, as you could not get very much pleasure with him this winter. And it takes so much time and trouble to attend to him. I will tell you where I am at as I think it will be all right now. I am at a small place by the name of Micerias. It is about thirty-five miles from Marseille, the large city I told you about passing through. I haven’t any news to write about. All I hear is that the war is over and we will all be home before very long. Give my love to all and keep lots for yourself. Your loving son, Robert Robert L. Hutchinson342 Butchery Co. APO 752, AEF Observer 1/3/1919, p4
At the beginning of the involvement of the US in WWI there was a Draft Board and Board of Exemptions set up in every county of every state. Each county was given a quota to fill for military service and sometimes a quota of 200 men required the examinations of 400 men. There were many asking for exemptions for various reasons. Many had poor teeth, poor eyesight or other physical deficiencies barring them from service. Carlisle Massachusetts was a very small town at the time and met its quote without any problem. Its quota was one man. The first man examined passed and did not ask for an exemption. Observer 8/17/1917, p3
Francis Earle Boazman 
| Francis Earle Boazman
photo courtesy of Ralph Boazman | | On October 3, 1918 the intelligence was received that the condition of Francis Earle Boazman 1st. Lieut. DDS was serious. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Boazman of Newberry County took the first train for Ohio, reaching his bedside the morning of October 15. They remained with him until the last. As a mark of honor, a brother officer, Lieut. Bailey of the dental corps, was detailed to accompany the body home. The funeral party reached Chappells on 10/24/1918. Lieut. Boazman volunteered one day after the United States declared war and for some months was stationed at Jackson Barracks, New Orleans, later entering officers training camp at Fort Oglethorpe. He was given the commission of 1st Lieut. in the Dental Reserve Corps on December 8, 1917 and was later transferred to Fort Sherman Ohio where he contracted the Flu. Only 27 years old, he was a specimen of physical manhood with an amiable nature that won a host of friends at home and in camp. Besides his parents he was survived by two brothers, John D. Boazman who was suffering from the Flu and Pvt. Joe Jenkins Boazman of the US Marine Corps, stationed in France.
Chateau St. Regis, Camp Hospital No. 105 Salleboeu-Gironde, France
Francis was the son of R. S. Boazman. He trained at Fort Oglethorpe and served in the Dental Infirmary No. 1, Camp Sherman Ohio as 1st Leiut. DRC. He died at the age of 27 years; was survived by his parents & two brothers. His mother, Joe Mary Jennings Boazman, died Oct. 28, 1918 from complications from the Spanish Flu.
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March 1, 1919 Mr. James P. Summer RFD No. 2, Ninety Six, Greenwood County, SC My Dear Mr. Summer, It is with a feeling of sadness that I assume the unpleasant duty of acquainting you with the tidings that your son Vandor Evans Summer, No. 3351238, Co. A, 3rd Anti-aircraft Machine Gun BN, died in this hospital at 6:30 this morning. While in the line of duty with his BN, awaiting time of embarkation, he was stricken with cerebro-spinal meningitis, which was very severe from its inception. He very soon became unconscious and died in that state without any suffering. From all that I can gather from his officers and associates, he lived a clean life with all the attributes of a soldier and in dying, died as such for his country. Regretting the necessity of being the bearer of these sad tidings, I still felt it my duty to acquaint you, his parents, with these facts, hoping they may alleviate your sorrow. Sincerely, F. H. Hurst Major, MC Observer 3/21/1919, p4
He leaves a father and mother and seven brothers to mourn his death. We shall forever pray that the soul may be with God. Always faithful, loving and true No more will his song be heard Now we miss his gentle footstep Miss each kind and gentle word No more in the lonely household Will his tender voice be heard You have gone from us forever No longer could you stay You have reached a fair region Far way – far away His heart broken brother, Fred T. Summer Observer 3/21/1919, p4
Fort Moultrie SC September 4, 1917 10th Co. CD of C Dear Mr. Wallace (News editor), Thought I would write you a line. All the boys from Newberry are getting along fine. My company is said to be the best-drilled company down here. My company was the 5th Co. SCCAC, NG but now we will not be the National Guard any more. So hereafter please send my newspaper to the 10th Co, CD of C, Fort Moultrie SC and oblige me. Your paper is just like getting a letter from home and we all look forward for our home paper. Jack Taylor, Bennie Mayes, Frank Ewart are tenting just back of my tent. So you see we are close together. If it will not be too much trouble to you, I would like for you to put it in your paper that they have changed our address from the National Guard to the Coast Defense of Charleston, 10th Co, Fort Moultrie, SC. If mail is sent to us with the old address it may get lost. The Jonesville Company has been changed to the 9th Co. CD of C. Best regards to all the people at Newberry. Don’t know when we shall get away from here, but I like it fine – although they work us from 6:45 am to 6 pm. Yours truly, Eddie J. Dickert Observer 9/7/1917, p4
Elbert Jackson Dickert died at a sanitarium in Asheville NC 11/19/1926 after a year’s illness at age 31 years. The funeral was held at the 1st Baptist Church and burial was in Rosemont Cemetery. He was survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Jake L. Dickert, widow (Nee Miss Geneva Thornton), one child; siblings Coke, Jesse, Forest Dickert, Mrs. Wyche Dickert, Mrs. George Lefler, Mrs. B. P. Ringer, Mrs. William Folk, Miss Julia Dickert and Miss Ruby Dickert.
William Osce Coleman
| Coleman Brothers
L - R: John Scurry b. Aug. 16, 1907; Clifton Pope & Carlton Garrison (twins) b. Dec. 3, 1898; Dan b. Feb. 10, 1901; William Osce b. Oct. 6, 1895. | 21 years old son of A. Pope Coleman of Chappells SC, attended the citadel and was in business in Greenwood SC before enlisting in the army. He was the great-nephew of Dr. W. J. Holloway of Chappells who was wounded in the Civil War. His aunt, Mrs. Frances H. Oliveros lived in Columbia SC. He was promoted to Lieut. at Officer Training Camp Oglethorpe GA before going to France. On March 2, 1918 he was bestowed the Croix de Guerre by Clemenceau, the Premiere of France. A letter written by Lieut. Coleman to his aunt Mrs. Frances H. Oliveros gave an account of how he won the famous cross of war:“I write, thanking you for the wonderful box that you sent me and to tell you of great news. I only wish grandfather Holloway was alive to hear this. I being the only representative of our family over here, and in fact in the army, have tried to do justice towards our future reputation as loyal and brave citizens and I shall let you judge after you have heard my story. I was in the trenches for seven days without very much sleep and not a garment touched during this time. To start with, I was weak, sleepy and tired and being in the front line trenches isn’t the best thing for anyone’s nerves. I had been conducting the fire of our battalion of ‘75’s on a working party about 1am on March 1. As the deafening sound of our high explosive would die away, through the chill of the early morning would come the shrieks and groans of the German soldiers as they scampered away. At 5:30 am the same morning I was dumbfounded by the sudden volume of explosions that seemed never to quit. The shell of the enemy had cut our telecommunication and it was impossible for us to find out just what was going on. Our first information came when a sergeant with sweat, dirt and a pale face came dashing up and said the Germans were invading our trenches. I immediately started, although we had no artillery in the front line. Feeling that it was my duty I went. As I came up to the portion of the lines that had been raided the Germans were going over the top—back to their own lines. To my left and to my right were the dying Huns. I began searching their bodies even before they were dead in some cases to get everything that would give us any information. I could not find any of our own dead until I had searched eleven of the enemy and was on my way to my twelfth one when I saw a poor boy that had been hit by the shrapnel. His remains were picked up with a shovel and buried. He was in threads. Then I went on with my duties. I had finished searching over a score when I heard the sad news of my friend’s death. He was from Dillon SC, the son of John H. David Sr. We were in school together and had been with him in the trenches for some time. If I had obeyed my feelings I would have sat beside him and mourned for the remainder of the day. But my duty was before me and I was about “All In” too, but looking out across No Man’s Land I spied a German who was wounded making his way back to his own line. The lines are about 390 meters apart at this particular place and he was 250 meters from me. By this time it was 10 am and very clear and I knew the snipers were on their jobs and the machine guns too, but prisoners are very valuable. So it was up to me. The men on outposts stopped me saying that machine gun fire had been playing around all morning. I stripped myself of everything that would prevent me from being free and started. It seemed hours and hours before I reached my objective. It is no pleasant job to crawl through mud and shell holes on two knees and one hand—with a gun in the other. I was about forty feet from the German before he saw me and when he turned his face to me he shouted, “Kamarad!” The others in the trenches fired in the direction of the noise. I got him quiet and started on my way home when I heard a rustling noise behind me. I turned. I hugged the ground and turned just in time to put a shot about one and a half inches above his left eye. His dying face will forever be in my imagination. I could not sleep for two nights afterwards. Whenever I would close my eyes I could see nothing but his bloody, trembling face, gasping for its last few breaths. I searched him before he died and was soon on my way back. It was a journey never to be forgotten. I turned my prisoner over to stretcher bearers with orders to have his wounds dressed and then to take him to headquarters. Being unable to sleep I roamed for the remainder of that day and the next. Late in the afternoon on March 2, I received orders to report to a certain place the next morning at 9 o’clock. I was a little late arriving and found the Battalion of Infantry that I was serving with during the raid in the field. As I came to the front in answer to my name the Battalion came to present arms and the Prime Minister of France, in the presence of the French Commanding General of the 1st Army and his staff and of our commanding general with his staff came up to me and decorated me with the famous Croix de Guerre with a palm. The palm is the highest order of the Croix de Guerre. I know no one has never been more surprised. In the midst of all this embarrassment were seven moving picture machines clicking in my face assisted by countless cameras. Then I had to tell my life history a thousand times to newspaper reporters. I was glad but oh, so tired. I could sleep finally, and I did. Observer4/19/1918, page 2
A. Pope Coleman of Chappells heard from Lieut. W. O. Coleman’s nurse in August 1918. She wrote to the Lieut.’s parents that it was found necessary to amputate his hand above the wrist as a result of wounds received fighting in France. He was reported improving rapidly and was anxious to get back in the trenches. In November Lieut. W. Osce Coleman wrote to his parents that he expected an artificial hand at an early date. Now that the war was ended it was probable he would return home soon as he was among the first Americans to see service in France. Observer 11/19/1918, page 3
COLEMAN, WILLIAM O.
First Lieutenant (Cavalry), U.S. Army
Aid-de-Camp, 1st Infantry Brigade, 1st Division, A.E.F.
Date of Action: July 20, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross was presented to William O. Coleman, First Lieutenant (Cavalry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Soissons, France, July 20, 1918. His liaison group having suffered many casualties, Lieutenant Coleman exposed himself to heavy fire on two different occasions in traversing the front line of the 18th Infantry during the attack. He returned each time with valuable information. Previously at Seicheprey, France, March 1, 1918, while on a mission to obtain identifications of enemy participants in a raid, he went out in advance of our lines, under heavy enemy fire, to assist in the capture of an enemy raider. Later, while on a mission to the front line, he was severely wounded, which necessitated the amputation of his left arm.
General Orders No. 60, W.D., 1920
Home Town: Chappell, SC
Lieutenant William O. Coleman
retired of Chappells SC, wearer of the Croix de Guerre, the Italian Cross and five citations for the Victory medal was on 12/21/1920 awarded the distinguished service award at Camp Jackson presented by Major General John L. Hines, commander of the 5th Division which turned out in full review with the 39th Coast Artillery Brigade in honor of the occasion. Details of the occasion were well described in an article found in the Observer 12/24/1920, p5
LIEUTENANT OSCE COLEMAN WAS REPORTED DEAD
A. Pope Coleman of Chappells SC received a letter on 5/19/1919 from John A. Nelson of the Quartermaster Corps of Hoboken NJ which caused him great uneasiness. He did not think his son was dead and yet he could not help fearing it as Major Nelson thought so, for he sent his condolences “On the death of this soldier.” Mr. Coleman hoped that this would prove to have been only the customary form used in such cases. He wired to congressman Dominick at Washington to help him get some information in the matter. Mr. Dominick wired back that the war department had received no information of the death of Lt. Coleman. The letter and the telegram follow: Letter from Major J. A. Nelson:
War Department
Port of Embarkation
Hoboken NJ
May 16, 1919 We have received at this office the personal effects of the late 1st Lieut. William O. Coleman and enclose herewith a certificate of family history, which when filled out will enable us to determine the soldier’s legal heirs. Will you kindly execute and return it to us as soon as convenient. It is with regret that this office has learned of the death of this soldier. I desire to assure you of every sympathy in the loss you are called upon to bear and to say that we shall be more than willing to comply with your wishes and to render you every assistance in our power. Very Respectfully yours,
John A. Nelson
Major QM Corps
Lieut. Coleman was one of the first men to enlist when the US declared war. In the spring of 1918 he was decorated with the Croix de Guerre for distinguished bravery in battle, the medal being pinned on him by Premier Clemenceau. Later in the fighting Lieut. Coleman was badly wounded, necessitating the amputation of one of his hands. But he remained in the army and his family had a letter from him, which was written from Germany April 20, 1919.
Congressman Dominick’s Telegram: Washington DC
May 19, 1919
A. P. Coleman
Chappells SC Your wire. War Department advised me they have no report as to the death of your son. Adjutant General is cabling this afternoon for a full report and will advise me just as soon as same is received and of course I will let you know. I sincerely hope that the reports you have received are not correct. Fred H. Dominick An item in Wednesday’s STATE probably throws some light on the case. When Lieut. Coleman was wounded in France he was carried to the hospital where he remained for some time, leaving some of ‘his personal effects’ with his regiment, such as his clothing etc. It is probably those things, which have been shipped from France to Hoboken. It was very distressing to his family and friends to be in this dreadful suspense. All hope that the report of his death was in error and he would be home soon again.
Mr. A. P. Coleman received positive information from the war department on 5/21/1919 that the Lieut. W. O. Coleman who was referred to in the letter received by him was not his son of the same name, but was from Seattle Washington. Observer 5/23/1919, page 1
William Osce Coleman was born on October 6. 1895 in Chappells, SC to Alexander Pope Coleman and Katherine Osce Holloway Coleman. He was the oldest of 5 boys. He married Fleeta Marie Margan on May 9, 1923. The bride was the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Bolton Margan. After the marriage the couple lived in Pernell OK. They had two children: Camilla Coleman born March 5, 1927, and William Osce Coleman, Jr. born on April 6, 1929.
A. P. Coleman of Chappells received the following letter from the War Dept. Mr. A. P. Coleman, Chappells SC Dear Sir, Information is requested by this office as to the present station of your son, Lieut. William O. Coleman, 3rd US Cavalry Regt. AEF who is reported to have returned to the US. A French citation has been received for him and his present address is desired in order that the decoration may be forwarded to him. Very Truly yours, P. S. Harris, Adjutant General Friends of Lieut. Coleman will be pleased to know of his honor from the French Government which avails him and also to know he will be home soon. His father is of the opinion Lieut. Coleman is on his way with General Pershing’s party and will arrive in NY on 9/15/1919. In one of his letters of recent date Lieut. Coleman intimated that when the commander-in-chief left Europe he himself would be in the party, as he had been attached to his staff and on this account it is believed that he is a member of the party, which is to arrive in NY. Observer 9/9/1919, p5 WILLIAM OSCE COLEMAN He came from overseas as a member of the party of General Pershing, participated in the NY and Washington Parades and arrived home in Chappells on 9/19/1919 at 8:50 pm. On 9/20/1919 a banquet was given in his honor. There were nearly 100 guests present from the counties of Greenwood, Laurens, Saluda and Newberry. A large US Flag waved over the mammoth table and a miniature flag flanked the plate of each guest to be worn as a souvenir of the occasion. After dinner speeches were made by Dr. George B. Cromer and Major Harry C. Tillman in their happy style. Then Mrs. Coleman, placed her arms about her son’s shoulders and led the guests in singing “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow”. In addition to the Croix de Guerre he also wears the Crown of Italy, bestowed by the King of Italy. He was the last of the Chappells boys to return home. Observer 9/23/1919, p4
Levi Everett Folk
late member of the 5th SC Infantry, proved himself a hero. He received retirement without medals as Technical Sergeant L. E. Folk who held nine honorable discharges with 25 years of service in the US Army and with a service rating of ‘Excellent’. He was born in Newberry SC. Although he failed to receive the distinguished service cross in any of the wars he served through, his record was one of heroic achievement. He volunteered for experiments in yellow fever and cared for the soldiers stationed at the Columbia barracks in Cuba who had yellow fever. He had first enlisted in Co. B 1st SC Vol. Inf. In 1898. Observer 3/27/1923, p1
Lieut. James H. Wallace
| Lieut. James H. Wallace | son of Mrs. Minnie Clary Wallace of Newberry had been in the US Army for three years. He went with the American Expeditionary Forces to France under command of General Pershing and rose to the position of Lieut. at the early age of twenty –three years. His brother Clarence sent a jar of tuxedo and he wrote a thank-you note to him, stating it was his last day attending Army Candidate School in France:“Thank goodness this is the last day at school. I passed 67th out of an original class of seven hundred men. Only about three hundred of them were recommended for commissions. My name was 67th from the top. Most of the class – about 90% - were college men. The next time I write to you I will be an officer. I could have received the commission over in the states but I preferred to get it in France. The only thing I hate is that I could not pass the engineer examination on account of my lack of technical education. One of the requirements was a credential stating you graduated from a college of technology and I could not do that, but I passed all the rest. I went to town today to see about procuring some uniform boots which cost 200 francs ($40). A decent uniform costs $65. I will write again when I get my Sam Brown (Commission).” Dear Mother, “I have passed my examinations and I am ‘Mrs. Wallace’s Boy’ now – an officer in the American Army in a few days. I am now waiting for my commission to be sent from General Headquarters. I am proud of myself, coming in at 67th in a class of 700 and with me not even having a high school education. It is a hard job, but I went in to win and I did it! Promotion will be fast now that the ice is broken. I hope to be a captain within a year, maybe more. My new address is Lieut. Wallace c/o Co. ‘E’, 1st US Engineers. Love, Jim He wrote to his brother Clarence Wallace describing the part his regiment, the 38th Infantry, played in the fighting beginning July 15th on the banks of the Marne. The bank of the river was held until the Germans forced a crossing through the French on their right and through another American Regt. on their left. Although under fire from the front and both flanks, the 38th held their ground for sixteen hours until forced to retire to keep from being outflanked. On the afternoon of the 16th they counter-attacked and drove the Germans back across the Marne, capturing some of their boats and crossing to the other side where they captured several pontoon trains. These were used by the American engineers to bridge the Marne. The engineers placed the following sign on the bridges: “Built in Germany for use by the American Army.” The Germans are still on the run up to the date of the letter, July 31. The losses of the 38th was pretty heavy, as they suffered casualties to the number of 1800 out of an original 3500 and came out with only 25% of their officers. They certainly made the Germans pay dear. Lieut. Wallace stated his battalion alone captured 500 soldiers and that over a thousand German dead were counted on the ground in front of the battalion. The Regiment gets decorated as soon as they can withdraw to a suitable place to perform the ceremony. Below is a copy of an order issued by the commander of the regiment: American Expeditionary Forces Headquarters, 38th Infantry Order No. 33 July 20, 1918 The colonel commanding the regiment wished to praise the officers and men for the heroic manner in which they received their baptism of fire on July 15, 1918 on the banks of the Marne, France. No regiment in the history of our nation had shown finer spirit or performed a greater deed. Let us cherish the memory of our comrades who have fallen. Salute them, then forward. Signed ________ Col. 38th US Inf. Observer 8/27/1918, p1
Carroll Dennis left on August 27, 1923 for Memphis Tennessee to enter the government hospital for treatment. Observer 8/28/1923, p8
 | Robert Duncan Porter
Class of 1915 Citadel April 1917 he was recommended as 2nd Lieut. for the US Army with the position of assistant paymaster in the USN. September 1917 he was sent to Fort Leavenworth KS and in November to Chickamauga Park, TN. While stationed at Camp Forrest he married Miss Helen Bond of Charleston SC on 4/26/1918. | 
| Vernon Hayne Wheeler son of J. P. Wheeler was assistant paymaster in the USN located in California. He married Miss Annie Kibler in February 1918. He was then stationed at Fort Jackson and was honorably discharged December 1918 from the armed forces, taking a position with B. B. Schumpert of Newberry County SC. |
Thomas Earle Hipp
Thomas Earle Hipp of Newberry was a 1917 Citadel graduate recommended for the position of assistant paymaster in the USN. He went to Washington DC for his physical and was accepted for the position, reporting to New Orleans for duty as assistant paymaster on the ship Petrel.A letter to Mrs. E. B. Hipp: USS AldenRed Sea December 30, 1920 My Dear Mama, We left Alexander on Christmas day and arrived that afternoon in Port Said Egypt. Our Christmas dinner, although eaten at sea was very nice, including Turkey and the other things that go to make a Christmas dinner. The sea was very calm and this helped a great deal toward making the dinner at sea a success. Port Said, as you know, is at the entrance of the Suez Canal. We were there three days getting provisions, oil for fuel and paying our way through the canal. We left Port Said at 6 am on December 28 and used most of that day going through the canal, which is 90 miles long. They only allowed ten miles an hour in the canal because it is not wide enough to permit greater speed, lest damage might be done to the sides by waves thrown up by the ship’s propellers. It was an impressive sight – the three ships, one after the other slowly coming through and no other signs of civilization on either side except for the small station houses now and then along the canal. The rest of the division is following us five days behind. I have to make all the arrangements for them. We are now in the Red Sea about thirty-six miles from Aden Arabia, which is our next stop. The sides of the canal and also of the Red Sea are nothing but sand, sand, sand as far as the eye can see. And Hot! Whew! We changed to white uniforms this morning and they are uncomfortable. Our next stop is Bombay and this is a little north of Arabia in latitude. Except for the heat this trip is fine. For two days the sea has been as smooth as a millpond. This is especially appreciated by all hands as we ran into a terrible blow off the southern coast of Italy very soon after we started and we had a rough time of it. As of yet I haven’t been seasick but there are lots of them on board who were. Before the cruise is over I will have handled the following different kinds of money since I left the states: British Pound Sterling, Jugo-Slav Kroner, Greek Drachma, Turkish Bounds, Egyptian Bounds and Bastres, Chinese Yael, Indian Rupees, Japanese Yen, Philippine Currency. Everything will be lovely if we only stay on the China Station six months and come back to the Navy Yard in Philadelphia, via Guam, Hawaiian Islands, Panama Canal and Cuba. I can at least say then that I have been around the world as we started from Philadelphia December 17, 1919 and me with ten days Christmas leave approved. Do you remember? I will try to mail this in Aden but any way you will get this some time. For you and Rosie, a very happy New Year. With lots of love to you both, your son Earle. Observer 2/15/1921, p1 |
Charles S. Haynes
Pvt. 1st Cl. Co. C, 118th Inf. 30th Div. died in service in WW1. He was buried in Arlington Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
Lonnie Marvin Mills
US Army, died in service in WW1 with burial in Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
Brox Nelson
Army, died in service in WW1 with burial in Santuc Cemetery in Union County. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
John Bluford Smith Jr.
Mechanic 149th o. Bat. E., C. A. C. died in service in WW1 with burial in Rosemont Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
Milton Shirey Pvt.
Co. B. 31st Inf. Died in service in WW1 with burial in the Old Lexington Baptist Church Cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
Thomas Owens Duncan Pvt.
41st Co., 156 Depot Brig. Died in service in WW1 and was buried in Whitmire cemetery. Observer 5/18/1923, p3
| Clyde Mize | Clyde Mize His mother received a telegram announcing the arrival of the remains of her son in NY and that it was on its way to Newberry. The American Legion escorted the flag-draped steel coffin from the train station to the cemetery and a small gathering of family and friends witnessed the re-interment of Pvt. Mize in Rosemont Cemetery. The American Legion was so taken with the lack of concern by the community that it had printed an article condemning the attitude of the populace who were so willing to send the boys off with great fanfare but who showed no concern when they returned less than whole and alive. There had been only a single floral wreath placed on the grave and that was from the American Legion. The article apparently struck a nerve in the citizens which was shown by the participation of the communities in re-interment of remains of soldiers later shipped to Newberry. |
John H. Livingston
The remains of Corporal John Hugh Livingston, Co. H, 118th Inf. 30th Div. (Another account stated he was a member of Co. F) arrived in Prosperity from France on 4/2/1921 under escort of honor by men of Camp Jackson. He was the son of T. D. Livingston of the Jolly Street section. Burial was in the Livingston Family Cemetery in Jolly Street. Observer 4/5/1921, p1; Observer 4/5/1921, p5; Observer 5/18/1923, p3
NOTE: The WW1 Monument in Memorial Park, Newberry SC has his name as Jehue R. Livingston but newspapers reported him as Johnnie Hugh and so did a letter written home by Paul Stone.
Major James Allen Lester writes from FranceAEF October 17, 1918 My dear ‘Mamsey’, I am sorry to write to you that I have been relieved from duty with troops in order to come to army headquarters of the 1st Army to help the organization, instruction and training sections. I had an excellent battalion, which I have taken into many hot places. They are all good men and have always worked energetically to help ‘lick the Huns’. This section which we are organizing is small and in its infancy, but we hope to make it grow into something large. We go all over the various areas and make inspections, write training schedules, digest information captured from the enemy and write information bulletins for distribution to the 1st Army. It seems quite unusual to get away from the front and I know that my Colonel hates to see me go, because even though he is a grim old warrior of many campaigns his voice showed a tremor. He is a man of about 50 years, although he looks 70. I have served under him as a 2nd Lieut., captain and Major and there had grown between us a wholesome affection - the one for the other. I’ll write you soon again when I become a little settled. With all my love, Allen PS – I’m afraid little Jim has cut me out of my place as baby. Observer 11/22/1918, p4
Major James A. Lester, Headquarters Army Artillery, 1st Army AEF
James Allen Lester graduated from Prosperity Schools, the Citadel 1913 and West Point 1915 with Honor. He was afterwards stationed at Fort Sill OK and in the summer of 1916 he was sent to El Paso TX in connection with the Mexican Border War. April 1917 he was sent to Sandy Hook NJ for duty in the ordnance department and in June 1917 he was transferred to OK to take charge of a company of soldiers. July 1917 he returned from overseas where he was promoted to Major in France. After the armistice he spent four months at the Sorborn University in Paris. While on furlough he gave a talk at Grace Lutheran Church in Newberry County. He was stationed at Fort Dix after the war and he married Miss Pauline Nichols daughter of L. M. Nichols on 11/16/1919 at the Methodist Parsonage officiated by Rev. J. D. Griffin.
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A Prosperity SC Nurse, LENA LESTER, writes from France ANC, US Army Base Hospital No. 54 APO 798 AEF Sunday night, 2 am, September 29, 1918 Dearest ‘Mamsey’, I am still looking forward to the letters from home. It seems as if they will never come. I heard from Allen, Lt. Wilson and Roberts – they all seem to be happy. It is still raining each day but clears up suddenly. We have put on our heavy underwear and it is great. Never thought I would ever wear it again but am very much in love with it. I have only two more weeks on night duty and am happy about that. An English woman invited Lilly and me to her room the other afternoon. She served tea, crackers and grapes. It sure was great. She was a dear little hostess too. Her husband is an interpreter. They have been living in Paris for the past four years but are here at present. Her oldest girl, 15 years of age, is at her home in London attending school. She hasn’t seen her since war was declared. Her youngest child is four years old and is a dear – speaks English and French fluently. Before we left she took us out into the garden. It had the tallest grape arbor ever – some grapes growing just like stick beans. There were also apples and pears growing on bushes about 18 inches tall- it appeared strange as we are accustomed to such huge trees. You see very few fences – everything is hedges and they are perfectly beautiful. You even see them way out in the country. I am very fond of this country and know I will like it better when I see more of it. Allen says he is coming to see me when he gets leave. I sure hope it will be soon but he seems so interested in his work at present that I am afraid he will not take it yet. Lt. Wilson gets his leave next month and says he is coming to see me. I am fine – have a wonderful appetite etc. so don’t worry. My best love to everyone and then ‘some’ for your own self. Lena Observer 11/1/1918, p5
Neely Cromer
On April 19, 1918 Little Mountain had a big patriotic party in the school auditorium under direction of Miss Mayme Swittenberg, principal. A patriotic play “Somewhere in France” was given free of charge. Short addresses were give by Prof. S. J. Derrick, Rev. C. J. Shealy and Rev. J. J. Long. Everyone in Little Mountain and surrounding communities were invited. No admission was charged.Neely Jenkins Cromer, a student at the Citadel, was called into the National Army in the first draft. Sergeant Major Neely J. Cromer of the 318th Regt. of field artillery completed a course of training at the third officers training school and was given a furlough which he used to visit at his home in Newberry SC. Lieut. Neely J. Cromer finished the highest branch in the artillery school at Fort Sill OK and was assigned to remain there as instructor in the school. Observer 4/26/1918, page8; 10/15/1918, page 8 Lieut. Neely J. Cromer School of Fire Fort Sill OK Dear Nannie Grace, Haven’t written to you in some time but had better write while I am in the humor and tell you about my airplane ride. I finally got my much longed-for ride today. The wind blows so up there going at such a terrific rate of speed that I had to doll up in a couple of coats, a good pair of goggles and a leather helmet. First we left the ground and worked from the ground upward. The next station was the clouds but of course we didn’t stop there, for ours was not the ‘limited’. I was looking at the ground when it began to disappear and looking up I saw that we were in the clouds. After a few minutes we emerged from the clouds in the beautiful sunshine above them. Looking down on the clouds they appeared as silvery waves floating happily on the breezes. The pilot took me up about five thousand feet and then dropped straight toward the ground for about two thousand feet in a tail spin. Maybe I didn’t get dizzy? I looked over one side and saw the world disappearing. Then I looked over the other side and saw it in a very inappropriate place above. However, I did not lose my lunch, as some do on their first trip. Then we gained a little elevation and went into a side-slip. That is just this: The pilot makes the ship skid on one side and it slides towards the earth at a terrific speed. So much for our ‘tricks’. From the air the ground looks like it was laid off in squares for a park and it is very beautiful. It also resembles those little miniature farms you see at the state fair. Houses look like very small doll houses; railroad trains look like Christmas toys. The town of Lawton looked very beautiful. You can’t distinguish hills or small mountains, unless they are very rugged. The trip was the finest I had ever experienced. Tell mother she ought to take just one such trip by all means. I know Papa would enjoy it. I wish someone would please tell me father’s plans. I just want to know what is happening. Tell Alston to write to me soon. I received mother’s letter today and will answer it soon. Good night and sweet dreams. Love, Neely J. Cromer
NEELY JENKINS CROMER 59 years old died 7/23/1955 in the Veteran’s Hospital in Columbia SC. He was born in Newberry County SC, son of William Berley and Ellen Boozer Cromer. He was a 1918 graduate of the Citadel and served as a 2nd Lieut. in WW1. For several years he was an engineer for the SC Highway Dept. and afterwards, for 25 years, he was with the NC Highway Dept. where he was resident engineer of the Green River Bridge at East Flat Rock. He then became maintenance engineer with the department. For the last six years he was in the rock crushing business in Asheville NC. He was active with the Lions Club, alumni chapters and American Legion. Survivors included a brother, Furman D. Cromer of Salisbury NC; three sisters, Miss Grace and Miss Ada Cromer and Mrs. Ted Cromer Gregory all of Newberry SC. Burial was in Rosemont Cemetery. Whitaker Funeral Home was in charge. Observer 7/26/1955, p1 |
Brest France, January 27, 1919 Dear Aunt, Just a few lines to let you know I am in France again and am doing fine and hoping this will find you well. We had some bad weather in traveling and just arrived yesterday, but it is nice today and much warmer. I don’t know how long we will remain here – maybe not more than a month or so. Will write more next time. Yours as ever, W. G. Gruber 5th Div. USS NEW MEXICO
Robert I. Gilliam volunteered for the US Army just about the time the US entered the war, at the age of 16 years. France, June 27, 1918 Dear Mother, Well mama, I am in the hospital now with a fever but I am able to be up and walk around. There are about fifteen other men from my company in here with me. Have been here for about five days now. Don’t know how long I will be here and am hoping to return back to active duty soon. I should have written sooner but I did not get any writing paper until today. I will write to Ed D. tonight and tell Mamie that Bud Moseley got gassed, but not badly. I have not seen him since the incident and have not had the chance to talk to him, so I don’t know how he is getting along – fine I hope. If you are able please send me a fountain pen, first class mail. I have not received any mail from you in about a month and a half. They are holding our mail for some reason. Your loving son Pvt. Robert I. Gilliam Co. ‘E’, 16th Inf. Censored by Lt. D. G. Russell
A Red Cross nurse wrote a letter to his mother: My Dear Mrs. Gilliam, Your son Robert asked me to write to you. At present he is unable to do this himself. As you must know by this time he was wounded July 18, 1918 – a serious wound of the frontal portion of his skull. He is conscious and does not suffer too much. He says he is getting along fine and for you not to worry too much. Lieut. Digby knows he is wounded. He has kept his promise not to smoke. I am sure he is a good clean boy. He said he is being treated like his mother would treat him. That is a bit of an exaggeration perhaps, but be sure that everyone of us would be glad to do all that a mother would do for “our boys”. Just now we have so many that we can only do just a little for each one. Our hearts ache to do more. Dear mother, you may well be proud of your lad. Be sure that I am praying for him as for all our soldier boys who are here. Robert says for me to tell you all the things to cheer you up. I can just say what I have said and that Robert himself will write to you when he can. He sends love to you and thinks of you often. Will you accept somewhat kindly this letter from one of your American nurses. Very Respectfully, Clara M. Foley ANC Amer. Red Cross Military Hospital No. 1, AEF July 22, 1918
My Dear Friend, Again I am writing you a line from Robert. He is doing nicely, I think, at present. He is able to handle himself much better than at first. He can even feed himself ice cream. Of course, you see, he is not able to raise his head to see what he is doing for it makes him dizzy. But the wound seems to be healing well and we hope for the best. He is quite cheerful. One of the little French girls who serves the patients meals has taken a great fancy to him, so he wants for nothing when it is time to eat. He has been moved from the isolation ward to a 60-bed ward. At first he did not like it so well but he says nothing about it now. He hopes soon to be able to write to you himself. He sends love and you may be sure he thinks much of home these days. He is not too much of a talker so I really know nothing about him or his family. Clara M. Foley ANC
Robert I. Gilliam was the son of Mrs. Mittie C. Gilliam of Oakland Avenue in Newberry. He was a student at Speers Street School taught by Miss Bess Burton and was a classmate of Richard Julian who joined the USN. He was underage for enlistment when the war broke out but was determined to join the army. With his mother’s consent he joined when only a little past his 15th birthday. A young soldier by the name of Robert I. Gilliam lay on the battlefield while the unwounded men kept pushing forward. He was a member of Co. ‘E’ 16th Infantry, 1st Brigade of the 1st Division and had speedily reached rank of 1st class Private. He was among the first to go with the AEF and with his comrades win high words of praise from Brigadier General Parker. The 16th Infantry was originally composed of regulars but was re-organized for overseas service. It was in the battles of Cantigny, Soissons, St. Mihiel, the Argonne and Sedan. It was at Soisoons where young Gilliam fell, wounded nigh unto death on 7/18/1919, having been hit on the head by a bursting shell. The objective was the Paris-Soissons road, a veritable dead-line. The road was lined with mature trees and behind each tree was a machine gun. Enemy aircraft circled overhead. Two American companies were almost wiped out in a short time. Soon all the officers were gone and a Sergeant took command of what was left of the fighting army. Private Gilliam lay where he had fallen and for seventeen hours was unconscious. When he came to he could neither speak or see. All he could do was hear and what he heard for four days and nights was enough to turn one’s hair to gray. Blind from the wound on his head and drinking his own dripping blood to quench his terrible thirst, part of that awful time of his paralysis he could hear the groans of the wounded and dying but was powerless to make himself known. Finally a doctor came to him as he lay with his death tag on – for he had already been tagged for burial, and sticking a needle in his arm said to one of the Red Cross Nurses, “This kid is not dead. What do you want to bury him for?” They carried Pvt. Gilliam to Paris where he lay for two months without being able to move hand or foot or to see. He was then shipped to Ellis Island Hospital in NY on 10/25/1919. His mother went to see him the day the Armistice was signed, 11/11/1919. She found him useless as a baby, with sight regained in one eye. Later he was moved to the Cape May NJ Hospital and afterwards allowed to come home to Newberry, having recovered sufficiently to be able to walk with assistance and help of others. Pieces of the shattered shell are still working through his flesh. With his sight restored and being able to now move about he is at home under the care of his mother. Talking about the incidents connected to him in the war make Robert Gilliam very nervous. He had related a few to his mother and when the news man went to the house for an interview it was the mother who told of the stories. One of the stories was of a young man placed in the trenches for burial who managed to move a finger when approached by a nurse, alerting her to his condition. He was removed from the pit and is now home with his family. There have maybe been others who were also not dead but were also not as fortunate as Private Gilliam. The 16th Infantry “Invincible First” was the first to arrive in France, first to fire a shot and first to shed its blood. Robert Gilliam never learned the name of the doctor who saved him but he has the everlasting gratitude of a soldier enjoying life at home. Observer 9/9/1919, p2
August 16, 1918 Dear Mother, I will write you a few lines to let you hear from me again. I am getting along as well as can be expected. My nurse takes fine care of me. Please write to her, Miss Clara M. Foley, American Red Cross Hosp. No. 1, AEF. I was wounded in the head and my left side is paralyzed. If it does not get better I guess I’ll be home soon. Much love to you and sisters and brothers. Your devoted son, Robert I. Gilliam
Dear Mrs. Gilliam, You need not be anxious about your son, as he is doing very well indeed. As I also came from South Carolina, Charleston, I have been especially pleased to know him. He is a fine fellow. Yours Sincerely, Francis L. Frost, Chaplain, Amer. Military Hosp. No. 1, AEF
August 19, 1918 Dear Mother and all, Today I take the greatest of pleasure in writing you a few lines to let you hear from me again and how I am getting along. I am getting along fine at the present time. I am able to lay on one side and write to you and the rest. It is very warm here today. I have been moved and don’t like it so much for I had a good nurse. She did everything in the world for me. I hated to leave her. I am going to write to her this afternoon. You be sure and write to her. In one of my letters I gave you her address. Mother, I know it nearly killed you when you were told of me being wounded but please don’t worry about me for I am all O.K. Well mother, I have not let uncle Dan know anything about me so you let him know about it. I was going over the top for the first time when I got hit, but I don’t mind shedding blood for ‘old glory’. I am proud to say I have, for I have done my bit. I am very anxious to go to the front again. Well mother, I have written all I know for this time so I will close by saying goodbye and with much love to all. Your loving son, Robert I. Gilliam
October 26, 1918 Dear Mother and All, Today I take the pleasure in writing you a few lines to let you hear from me and how I am getting along since I have arrived in the US again. I am doing fine this morning. I have just eaten dinner and am sitting up in a chair writing to you. I had a notion of sending you a telegram but I did not for you would know about it anyway. I had a very nice trip over. We sailed for the US on October 16 and landed October 25. I was only sick one day. We are in the harbor now. I can see New York city from the window, that is, the principal buildings. I don’t think I will be here long. They may send me closer to home – hope so anyway. I have some French money for you as a souvenir: a 10-franc note valued at $2 American money. I have two pieces of German money which I brought with me. Well mother, I have written all I know for this time, so I will close, for news is very scarce. I am tired of sitting up and have no really good place to sit to write. I will write when I reach rest time. Don’t answer until you hear from me again, for I don’t know where I will be sent. I have also got to write to my little French girl. Love, Robert I. Gilliam USA De-embarkation Hospital No. 1 Observer 8/16/1918, page 4; 8/20/1918, page 1; 9/13/1918, page 5; 11/8/1918, page 7
ROBERT I. GILLIAM wrote about the ‘Regular Army’ … You know for yourself that the Regular Army gets no praise at all from the people. They are bound to boost the home division which is the 30th , better known as the ‘Old Hickory Division’. I have been home twice and I have yet to hear anyone say anything about the regular army. Here are some short facts about this division, which were posted in the hospital here for the men to see. 1st DIVISION The 1st Division was the first to land in France on June 27, 1917. It was composed of regulars with a liberal sprinkling of the last volunteers of America, those who volunteered during the time of America’s entry into the war. It was the first to enter the trenches and to make a raid and the first to be raided; the first to capture prisoners; the first to suffer casualties and on Nov. 3, 1917 was the first to inflict casualties; the first to fire the trenches. It was the first to fire on the enemy; the first to hold a Division sector; first to hold a horse show. This was on July 4, 1918 at Tartigney France by the 5th, 6th and 7th FA. It was chosen by General Foch. It was the first American Division in March 1918 sent against the German Drive towards Paris when General Pershing offered the service of any division wanting to stop the German Drive. It did so at Montdidier sector. It was the first to take any territory from the enemy, which was Cantigny – this was when all other Allied sectors were on the defensive. It was chosen for the position of honor during the great Soisson drive and gained nine kilometers the first day. July 18, 1918, against the most determined resistance. The finest picked French troops were unable to keep up with the rapid advance of the 1st Division. (The 16th, 18th, 26th and 28th regiments). They were all regular army men. It was once more chosen for the honor position during the St. Mihiel offensive. It was the first to enter Sedan, being halted in the outskirts of the city by Marshal Foch as to permit the French troops the honor to be the first to go through the city. It was the first division to cross the river Rhine and is now occupying the most advanced division position of the Coblenz Bridgehead. The 1st Division never lost an inch of ground to the enemy and it lost the heaviest casualties of any part of the American Army during the European War. The citations in general orders to our division are the following: GO 112 1st and 2nd Divisions GO 143 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 26th, 28th, 32nd and 42nd Divisions GO 201 1st Division GO 232 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 26th, 28th, 29th, 32nd, 33rd, 35th, 37th, 42nd, 77th, 79th, 80th, 82nd, 89th and 91st Divisions GO 238 1st, 6th, 24th, 26th, 42nd, 82nd, 89th and 90th Divisions. I remain yours truly, Robert I. Gilliam Observer 5/16/1919, page 4
Robert I. Gilliam, a veteran of WW1, Co. A, 16th Inf. 1st Division, died 4/15/1932 from pneumonia at the home of his mother. He was paralyzed July 18, 1918 from wounds suffered at the Battle of Chateau Thiery. An escort of National Guardsmen from Columbia accompanied the body to Rosemont Cemetery. He was survived by his mother Mrs. M. C. Gilliam; a brother Lonnie B. Gilliam of Newberry SC; two sisters Mrs. Kathleen Plantin of Newberry and Mrs. Ruby Barnett of Jellico TN.
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