“LET’S GO!”
The 26th “Yankee” Division (also known by its veterans as the “Sacrifice Division” and by French troops as the “Phalanx of Aces”) was the first National Guard division to be formed for the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF). Following the Federalization of National Guard troops on August 5, 1917, the organization of the Division was authorized by the War Department on August 13, 1917 and the Division’s table of organization under the command of Maj. General Clarence Edwards was announced on August 22, 1917. Units of the division were composed of assorted National Guard troops from the New England states (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut) together with a contingent of National Army (drafted) troops from Camp Devens in Ayer, Mass.
The 26th Division consisted of the following units:
Division HQ (MA Cavalry)
51st Infantry Brigade
- 101st Infantry Regiment (5th, 6th, 9th MA Inf.)
- 102nd Infantry Regiment (1st, 2nd CT Inf.; 1st VT Inf.; 6th MA Inf.)
- 102nd Machine Gun Battalion (MA Cavalry; 1st VT Inf.)
52nd Infantry Brigade
- 103rd Infantry Regiment (2nd ME Inf.; 1st NH Inf.)
- 104th Infantry Regiment (2nd, 6th, 8th MA Inf.)
- 103rd Machine Gun Battalion (RI Cavalry; NH MG Co.)
51st Artillery Brigade
- 101st Field Artillery Regiment {75mm} (1st MA FA)
- 102nd Field Artillery Regiment {75mm} (2nd MA FA)
- 103rd Field Artillery Regiment {155mm} (NH, RI, CT FA)
101st Machine Gun Battalion (CT Cavalry; 1st VT Inf.)
101st Engineers Regiment (1st MA Eng; 1st ME FA)
101st Signal Battalion (MA, CT Signal Units)
101st Military Police Company (6th MA Inf.)
101st Ammunition Train (1st VT Inf.)
101st Supply Train (RI Cavalry; 8th MA Inf.)
101st Sanitation Train {Medical} (MA, CT, RI, NH Field Hospitals)
Like the other U.S. infantry divisions being formed at the time, the 26th was a “square” division also known as a “Pershing Division.” Designed by General John J. Pershing, this structure was more than double the size of a European army division and consisted of 2 Infantry Brigades of 2 Regiments each, 1 Field Artillery Brigade with 3 Regiments, a Machine Gun Battalion, Engineer Regiment, Signal Battalion, and divisional supply & sanitary trains. Each battalion included 4 companies of 6 officers and 250 men each. The total divisional strength was 979 officers and 27,082 men.
The 26th “Yankee” Division was both the first U.S. National Guard unit and also the first complete American Division to arrive in France since only elements of the 1st Division (Regular Army) had preceded it. It was in combat longer than any other American Division and suffered the greatest number of gas casualties in the AEF. According to captured enemy documents, the 26th Division was also considered by its German opponents to be one of the four best “storm” or assault divisions in the American Army.
26th Div. Artillery Shell Trench Art
103rd Infantry Regt. Helmet
American Doughboy, 1918
Soldiers' Mail
Hello,
I have recently begun researching my family history and have discovered that a great uncle was in the 26th Yankee Division in World War 1. He born in Ireland and resided in the Stamford,CT area. His name was Peter Troy and he died in 1930.
Is there a roster of the members of the Guard units from CT on file, or can you recommend where to research.
Any information is appreciated.
Sincerely,
Jack Dunn
Hi Jack:
Thanks for the question regarding your great uncle. To uncover the answer it helps to know as much as possible about any details regarding his service. If he was a Volunteer or a member of the Connecticut National Guard prior to the declaration of war, he was quite possibly assigned to the 102nd Infantry Regiment which was composed of Connecticut troops (and also was home to Stubby the Divisional Mascot). I would begin your adventure by inquiring if the Connecticut National Guard currently maintains any archives which may very well hold some information for you.
Best of Luck!
My grand father, Harold Barnes and His brother were both in this division. I recall a story that my grandfather stole a generals jeep and than sometime after the war the general told my grandfather, yeah, i thought it was you!
In response to Jack Dunn’s query; the book “Connecticut Fights! The Story of the 102nd Regiment” (Daniel Strictland, 1930) has a very good roster list of Connecticut men who served with the 102nd Inf., 26th Division. Incidently, the roster is not complete in that it does not name the men who were reassigned to the unit from other states (such as the 6th Vermont and 3rd Massachusetts regiments) before embarkation to France or who were originally conscripts.
Thanks Alan! I have passed your lead along to Jack. Can you also offer any information sources for Connecticut artillery?
I have been researching my grandfather’s (Nicholas Vennitti) service in WW1. Not much to go on but a picture of him in uniform. Clearly visible on his sleeve is the insignia of the 26th “Yankee” Division.
Oddly, however, my grandfather was a recent immigrant from Italy, arriving in 1912, and lived in New York City’s lower east side. I am sure his english was poor as it wasn’t very good when I was a child in the sixties.
How do you suppose he ended up in the Yankee division and not the 27th?
There might be some info in my cousins attic, but all who he would of spoke to about his service are long gone.
Vince, thank you so much for visiting Soldier’s Mail and for your recent comment/question. I love hearing from readers, especially those who are doing their own family research such as you are.
Your grandfather could have become a member of the 26th Div. either as a volunteer enlistee or a draftee. It would not be hard for someone from NYC to join the 26th through a recruiting drive as it included troops from CT. It has always been common for immigrants (even recent ones) to enlist during wartime in an expression of patriotism and to embrace their new lives as Americans. He also might have been drafted and then assigned to the 26th Div. as a replacement. Sam speaks of many draftees arriving in France and filling the ranks throughout his time Over There, especially since the 26th Division had a high casualty rate.
The “YD” insignia on his sleeve indicates that picture would have been taken anytime from November, 1918 onwards since it was only then that such insignia was officially adopted in the AEF. It would be hard to judge just how long he had been with the Division unless there are also overseas service chevrons visible on his sleeve.
If you can locate any other information via other members of the family, what can help unravel the mystery is any documentation that indicates what specific unit he was in, when he entered the service, etc. Any relics, letters or discharge papers are valuable clues.
Good Luck!
Rich
Good day – First, please let me compliment you on your terrific website. I feel very lucky to have come across it. Like many others, I’m trying to discover more information about a relative who served in the 26th. My great-uncle (whom I idolized when I was a very little kid in the 60s) was a Top Sgt. in the 103rd Sup. Co. – I have his dog tags, ribbon bars (with 3 battle stars), prayer book, Maine Nat’l Guard collar insignia, helmet and a German M-16 helmet he brought back, along with a wooden cane with an Iron Cross carved into it; he told me that he took it off a dead German officer, which of course was really exciting to a 7 year-old. My guess now is that it’s POW art he probably gave some German a pack of cigarettes for. No matter; it was a beyond-cool story at the time.
My question is this; I’m trying to locate any service information for him that I can. Like so many others, his service records were destroyed in a fire at a storage facility in 1973. Do you by chance have suggestions as to where I could look next for information? I do know that he is credited with service at the 2nd Marne, St. Mihiel, and the Argonne, and that he was overseas from 12/1917 to 7/1919.
Sorry for the length, and thanks very much in advance for whatever you may be able to tell me.
Sincerely,
Pete Lord
Hi Pete:
Thanks so much for visiting Soldier’s Mail and for your question. You should look at Sam’s letters from Neufchateau, Vosges (1917-1918). In them he describes billeting in a house with 2 or 3 other NCO’s including the Supply Sgt. who may well have been your great-uncle.
I’m glad to hear that you have some relics. The cane may very well have been taken off a dead or captured German officer as the 26th (including the 103rd Infantry) was in fierce fighting for 9 months and took many prisoners as well as casualties along the way. It might well have been acquired by a man in a rifle company and then traded for something from the Supply Sgt.
If your great-uncle was a volunteer in the Maine NG then it is also likely that Maine has their own records of his service. I would suggest starting with the Maine Military Museum and see if they either have the records themselves or can better direct you.
Best Regards,
Rich
Ok,
Did some research and found out a lot. Vincenzo Vennitti enlisted in the 26th “Yankee” Division in May of 1918. Vencenzo (I think I said Nicholas in the first message mistakenly as that is my Father’s name) arrived in this Country from southern Italy in 1912, I am told, so I assume he enlisted as opposed to being drafted. Could a alien be drafted at that time? I found his enlistment paper and his new citizenship papers, the latter having been issued in June of 1918 which could have been the motivating factor in his enlistment.
The enlistment papers gave no indication as to unit or battalion, but I was fortunate to find his discharge notice, both original and copies, that state he was in the 102nd Machine Gun Battalion, and list as his “expeditions” St. Michael, Verdun (which I researched and found to mean the Battle of Belleau wood or surrounding area) and I think it said St.Remy, I had trouble reading it as it is hand scripted by the officer who’s name I cannot read.
He was listed as having no “Injuries” or Typhoid and having a “excellent character” and was discharged form Massachusetts in Spring of 1919.
I will try to get more info. If you can tell anything about the this info I would be very appreciative.
Thanks,
Vincent Vennitti
Hi Vince:
Great news on your discoveries! If Vincenzo was in the 102 MG Battalion, then he was assigned to the 51st Brigade and supported both the 102nd and 104th Infantry in extremely heavy fighting. There are many sources on the Bibliography page that will help you out.
Regards,
Rich
I have bought an oval wrist ID on a chain. It states:
J.K. FAIEBANKS
101ST.AM.TR
2TH CO
CAN ANYONE TELL ME IF THIS IS THE AMMUNITION TRAIN (VT)? ANY OTHER INFO ?
(it is common to find ‘r’s written as ‘e’s as in FAIEBANKS/FAIRBANKS)
DYLAN RIVIS
Hi Dylan:
The wrist ID was worn on the left wrist and matched the ID discs (aka “dog tags”) which were worn around the neck. The logic of this was to have identification in more than one place in case a soldier became dismembered in battle. The wrist ID you have apparently belonged to a Private of the 101st Ammunition Train which was an element of the 26th Division organized from National Guard troops of the 1st VT Infantry. If Mr. Fairbanks had a higher rating than Private it would have been also stamped on the ID. Not sure what to make of the Company designation because usually they were identified by letters A,B,C etc. In any event, if it could speak I’m sure it would tell quite a story. Check out the references on the Bibliography Page to find historical accounts written shortly after the war that will give you more information about the activities of the 101st Ammunition Train.
Best Regards,
Rich
I was so happy to find this website-I have been very interested in learning more about my grandfather’s involvement in WW1-he directed the 106th Sanitary Train of the Dixie Division at Camp Wheeler. Can you tell me more about these sanitation trains-were they the precursors to the mobile army surgical hospitals?. His name was Dr. George F. Keenan he retired as a Brigidier General in the national Guard in 1921. He rose to rank of Colonel in the medical department of the army. Thanks for any insight into this interesting time. Kerry Bean
Hi Kerry:
The sanitation trains operated as a medical function and were responsible for all tasks related to maintaining the health and fighting strength of the larger unit. In camp they were responsible for preventive health maintenance including ensuring the water and food supplies were not contaminated, preventing vectors of possible infection through insects and vermin, constructing and maintaining sanitary latrines and making sure that rubbish was properly disposed of. In battle they also operated dressing stations and field hospitals which were the first line of treatment and triage for the sick and wounded.
Best Regards,
Rich
What a wonderful site–! In my late father’s belongings I found a large [2 1/2"diameter] bronze cast medal depicting a soldier in gear running in the foreground with others in the hills shooting. The reverse side shows a landscape and relief map showing the French cities of Reims, Argonne, Bois-Belleau, Verdune and others. The YD symbol is at the top along with 1917-FRANCE-1919.
I am guessing that these were given to Division members after the War showing their battle venues. The edge shows “FD Brown Inc, NY” The design shows a copyright symbol and artists name: M Lordonnis 1919.
Oddly, no one in the family on either side had any
wartime connection to WWI so how it came to Dad is a mystery.
Any other information you may have would be appreciated Thank you
TO ELLEN BUCHNANAN – medal made in NJ not NY. Name is LORDONNOIS also.See info below found online.
Country: USA – New Jersey
Issued By: F.D. BROWN Inc. N.J.
Type: Commemorative
Details: AEF 1917 – 1918 | EF+
signature – ©Bv. M.LORDONNOIS,1919 – helmeted, rifle-toting American soldier rushing into battle, smaller soldier figures fire from trench, smoke rising, near rim “copyright” BY M. LORDONNOIS, 1919.
· 1917 FRANCE 1918 · – see NOTES
Grouping: Single
Designer: M. LORDONNOIS
Shape: round.
Mint: (1919)
Wt./Size/Axis: 94.10g / 62mm / –
Acquisition/Sale: $41.03 Mar-03-09
Notes: Mar 13, 09 – reverse description: Top “· 1917 FRANCE 1918 ·” above map with incluse names (L) “SOISSONS BOIS BELLEAU CHATEAU-THIERRY”; (Center) “REIMS”; (R) “ARGONNE VERDUN ST. MIHIEL”, below cross bar (L) “DEPOSE” (R) “STUDER Eot”; a cross of Lorraine below in exergue.
HI, about two years ago we discovered that my maternal grandfather Hugh James O’Brien served with the 26th division 102nd artillery. My cousin was able to locate his application for a headstone. It states that he was a private in battery J. Is this unusual because he was from Elizabeth n.j. My mother was only months old when he passed away in 1926. Her mother died when she was 10 years old so info on Hugh James O’Brien is sketchy. I was told that mustard gas contributed to his death but that also is a unknown. His brother Walter OBrien also served in the artillery but i not sure if it was with the same outfit. I was a little kid when my uncle Walter told me of WW1. Is there any way to verify his service in the 26th ? thank you John Quigley.
Fantastic web site – from here I have found links and search suggestions that have enabled me to find photos, details etc. My grandfather was a member of the 26th, 51 Brigade, 102 Inf. Co M. I am fortunate to have most of his uniform, “purple heart” document, his field notes, tags, helmet, a German Luger he picked up in No Mans Land on the day of the Armistice and much more. He was severely wounded on 3/17/1918 in the Chemin des Dames sector. I am trying to find out where he was treated and approximatley how long he would have been in hospital. Any thoughts on where I might find out this information. thank you for any assistance.
Hi Inge:
Thank you so much for visiting Soldier’s Mail and for your question. Please read the page “Recovery in the Hospitals” for a recounting of the process by which troops were triaged and treated for injuries at the front. Without knowing more information, I would assume that your grandfather was initially treated at the 102nd Field Hospital before being moved to an Evacuation and Base Hospital (depending on the severity of his wounds). Follow this link for a list of AEF Base Hospitals:
http://www.worldwar1.com/dbc/basehosp.htm
I hope you may have some additional clues (correspondence, records, etc.) which will match him up with one of these locations. Let me know how you make out.
Best Regards,
Rich
Hi there,
I am in the middle of working on my family tree and I have been told by a cousin in the US that that one of my grandfather’s cousins Michael J McGuire was killed in action on 20 July 1918 during the Aisne-Marne Offensive. He was in the 26th Infantry and his Serial Number was 2312960. He emigrated from Crossmaglen, Ireland in 1910 and enlisted on 18 September 1917 in Lakewood. I was wondering if there is any way of obtaining any further information or pictures of him.
I would be grateful for any information or advice you might be able to give me.
Regards
Rosie Finnegan
My grandfather served with the 101st Field Artillery in the 26th Division. His obituary says he served in four major engagements and was gassed during the war. He died when my father was nine years old. How might I find his service record?
Thanks for any advice!
My Grandfather,Irving H Nelson was a machine gunner with the 26th Yankee Division.
After the war he joined the newly-formed Connecticut State Police and was the first State Trooper shot to death in the line of duty in 1928. My grandmother was with child (my mother) at the time, and was bitter for years that he came through WW1 just to be slain in Connecticut. You can “Google” his name and read the story of how he died.
Thank you for the work you have done on this website.
Thomas Dooley was a member of the YD during WW1. From the many stories he told when I was a young boy (75 now) I learned that he also served on the Mexican Border under Pershing.
The Boston Globe newspaper published a great article sixteen years after the war. It was about a St. Patrick’s Day event held on a battlefield in France. They put on a chariot race and a mule race. Tom was the winner of one of the mule races.
Tom was a Mess Sergeant and great with the mules. He told many stories about his service and was considered quite a hero by my grandfather and father.
I believe Tom was my grandfather’s cousin and arrived from Ireland about 1900.
He was also my youngest sister’s Godfather.
He left some of his possessions to her and my father: Two Copper throphies awarded for his win in the races and a 75 mm trophey engraved with initials and the word VERDUN.
Hope some find this info of interest.
Regards,
Jim Griffin
Hi Jim:
Thanks so much for the contribution! The 75mm shell casing sounds like classic “Trench Art” which probably was hand-crafted while in the lines during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Please send along a photo sometime if you have one.
Best Regards,
Rich
Hello,
My great uncle was in the National Guard from Mass. and I too wanted to find out specifically where he might have been in the Division. He was suppoed to be finished with his 3 years but was ‘kept’ in the service and shipped to Europe. He was a welder by trade and I have been told he did lots of that during his service in WWII. As for your advise previously written, I will look into the Mass National Guard to find more info. Thanks for any and all help.
Best,
Dennis
I recently found out my grandfather fought as part of the 102nd Infantry and I was wondering if anyone had any information about when they shipped out and details about their objectives and experiences in France. My daughter is doing a report on WW1 and including information about a family member makes the learning process that much better. His name was Elias Kolofolias and he lived in Lowell, MA.
Thanks for any and all help.
Mary
I am trying to identify chevrons (gold in color) worn on the lower right sleeve of my grandfather’s uniform – reference indicates this is the location for wound stripes. However, his are dark blue in color and there are 2 of them. He was in the YD, 51st Brigade, 102 Inf., 3rd Battalion, Co. M. Can you tell me what they might be? I know he was wounded once on 3/17/18 but have not heard of any other wounding.
Hi Inge:
Based on your description I would have to say they are indeed wound chevrons if they were located on the right cuff. Not sure whether you are saying they are gold or appear to be dark blue. The discoloration could be due to several factors, but they would have originally been gold. Sounds like he was wounded twice by enemy fire. Please let me know if you have any documents or other information and I will try to help further explain things for you.
Hi
My Grandfathers name is Henry A Cheney who lived in Bow, NH during WWI. He served with the 26 Yankee Div. as a machine gunner with the 103rd Machine Gun Battalion. He received the Distinguished Service Cross and the French Croix De Guerre while engaged in battle at Chateau Thierry (July 18th-24th 1918) I’m very fortunate to have his helmet, gasmask, dog tags, letters and pictures of him in his uniform. I was wondering if anyone else had relatives in the 103rd Machine Gun Battalion that could share information.
Hi,
I came across a request from a genealogy-related French website. (Its member also help with any search really, not only genealogy.)
One of the member has found an ID plate in 2008 in Lorraine, in her backyard, with the inscription:
LEOB MINTZ PVT CO.M 26 INF USA.
That’s the only information she has, but she’d like to find the family of that person, in case they’d be interested to get the ID plate back.
If anyone has an idea of where we could find information, I’d be glad to forward it. Thanks a lot for any help.
Angelique.
A Google search shows there was a Leob Mintz buried in BOZEMAN-GRIFFIN CEMETERY, Brunswick Co, Ash, NC : Leob Mintz – b. Sept 24, 1899 d. Dec 14, 1967
This would be about the right age for WW2 service.
A Google search of Ash NC states there are over 700 people of this last namein the area.
I am continuing to search.
During World War I, the 26th infantry was part of the
1st Army Corps
Major General Hunter Liggett, commanding.
1st Division – Major General Charles P. Summerall, commanding; Lieutenant Colonel Campbell King, Chief of Staff, Major H. K. Loughry, Adjutant General.
1st Brigade Infantry – Major [General] John L. Hines;
16th Infantry Regiment
18th Infantry Regiment
2nd Machine Gun Battalion
2nd Brigade Infantry – Major General Beaumont B. Buck
26th Infantry Regiment
28th Infantry Regiment
3rd Machine Gun Battalion
1st Brigade Field Artillery
5th Field Artillery
6th Field Artillery
7th Field Artillery
1st Trench Mortar Battery
Engineer Troops – 1st Regiment
Signal Troops – 2nd Battalion
Division Units – 1st Machine Gun Battalion
Hello Dylan,
Thanks for the info. I’ll forward it right away. I must say someone on the same site suggested the name might have been Leo B. Mintz, and there are tons of them on the Internet. I know about nothing about those ID tags. Do you think it’s possible that the middle initial was B?
Thanks again for your help,
Angélique.
Hello I am trying to find someone who during WW2 served with the 26th Infantry Division(101st Field Artillery Battalion).Several weeks ago my brother in law passed away in a VA home in Pennsylvania.With his belongings was a Purple Heart medal and an American 48 star flag.Years ago I had made him a shadow box with his WW2 decorations and unit patches.Since he never talked much of his war service other than when on one occasion he and his buddies took over a home with a large wine cellar.His daughter and son asked me since I am also a WW2 vet to try and solve the problem.Thank you. Bill
Angelique. Yes, it is quite possible that the ‘B’ is his middle initial. I also have a WW1 dogtag where the man’s name ,Fairbanks, was mistakenly stamped as Faiebanks.I think that whoever was stamping the tags was working from a handwritten list and the commonly used french ‘r’ was mistaken for an ‘e’.There were other errors on the tag too, so it obviously wasn’t unusual !
Somehow you need to access WW1 troop listings from his regiment to try to ascertain his real name.
Many years ago I purchased a Prayer Book for Soldiers and Sailors at a used book store. The inscription inside seemed to call to me and I had to have it. When I got it home I realized that there was a photograph of a woman together with partial letters tucked inside the back flap – - also pressed flowers. The front inscription reads as follows:
This is to certify that Edward Whittlesey Shore, Co;. B, 101st Engineers was Confirmed by me at Hamoredville Lorraine, France on the Sunday after Ascension, May 12, 1918 in a tent deserted because of shell fire. He was presented by Earl R. Closson
Signed: Roger Israel Bishop of Erie, U.S.A. There is also a faint pencil note in the back “R??? Frey Comp. F 101 Eng Died Nov. 16, 1918.
I would like to locate the family and return the book.
I am in the process of reading a hand-written diary kept by Thomas Wellington Williams who was a National Guardsman from the Boston area and served the 26th Yankee Division Field Artillery Battery B in 1917-1919. I have followed his experiences through WW 1 and was wondering if more information could be available about this soldier or where to look. Any ideas?
Hello,
My Grandfather, Pvt.Melvin Campbell and his Brother Pvt.Alonzo Campbell both served during WW1 in the 101st Engineers Co.B . They both were from Wells,Maine.
I found both their names in the back of the 26th Yankee division History book and a reference to my Uncle Alonzo in the Co.B history book (Acording to the book he apparently tried to “liberate” a French farmers mule to ride into town and it threw him and he managed to end up with a sore backside!)
Just wondering if anybody has any reference to either of them or if they have been identified in any photos? Unfortunately no one in the family bothered to inquire into any war stories and any info would be greatly appreciated.
Hi
My name is Tony Ring. I wonder if anybody can help me? My uncle William Ring was killed in WW1 second battle of Aisne-Marne. He was killed in action on 31st July 1918. I dont have much helpful information, only that he was Irish and joined the AEF. I don’t know when he went to the U.S.A. I have a Registration Card, badly photocopied and hard to read. His medal said Bayonne, N.J.
Thanks for any help.
Hi Tony:
To figure out his military history, please give me whatever you have for information on his Draft Registration card and anything else. Not sure what the “medal” is you refer to, but if you can send me a digital picture I’ll figure it out. It was a common thing for recent immigrants to the U.S. to join the military in order to advance their citizenship.
Two links I can recommend for research are the American Battlefield Monument Commission (http://www.abmc.gov) and Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com). Based on what information you can give me, I can recommend how you might also make an inquiry with the U.S. Dept. of Defense.
Best Regards,
Rich
I’m doing research about a hero dog from WWI named Sgt. Stubby. I have found lots of information about the dog, but not lots about Private John Robert Conroy who was the one who found the dog. John R. Conroy of New Britain, Conn. belonged to the 102nd Infantry Regiment of the 26th Yankee Division. I would like to know if anybody has any information about him. Thanks in advance.
My father was a buck sgt in the 101st infantry company “D” of the Yankee Division in World War 1. He was in France, was gassed as well as wounded and received the purple heart. He convalesced at a hospital in Oize, France in 1918. Does anyone have any more information about my father Edward H. Burke? I would like to know the name of the soldier in the company who went on to become a journalist for a Boston paper. Also, any other members f the company who went on to become famous.
My grandfather, Lawrence S. Sherman, was a member of Co. K, 104th Inf. of the YD. He was wounded at Chateau-Thierry. Prior to WWI, he had been with Pershing in the expedition into Mexico chasing Pancho Villa.
I have a wonderful photo of him, in uniform, seated in front of a photographer’s painted backdrop showing a harbor scene. I have recently come across paperwork relating to his pension.
Thank you so very much for this very interesting website.
Hello-
My Grandfather Howard F Lancour was part of Co D in the 104th. He was gassed in the war, but I’m not sure where. I have two postcard photos of him when he was in France. In one of the photos is he with three other men, but I have no Idea who these men are. Is there any way to find out? Perhaps a book with Company Photos. Thank you.
What a wonderful site! Would it be too late to get recognition for a wounded WWI soldier? Sgt. Seth Avery Beeker fought at Chemin des Dames in 1918 with the 102nd Infantry from Connecticut. He was gassed and hospitalized but his unit got a Croix de Guerre. His son is now 80 but keeps wondering if his father might still be eligible to receive the Distinguished Service Cross which was awarded to him in 1918 but not given due to his hospitalization. Any help is greatly appreciated!
Susan,
Try the get information at the massachussets state archives or the CT national guard. Both may have elements of the military records of Sgt Beeker.
The National Archives may also be helpful on the following address:
http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/
Best of luck for your research
Benoit
My Grandfather Allen Monteith was a Sgt in the 26 Inf. Yankee Division. I don’t know what unit he was in, just started looking into his military history. He was from Revere Mass. when he enlisted. Is there a roster of soldiers in the 26th YD? Any information or direction would be much appreciated.
George Allen Monteith
I am looking for information about Frank Sibley, reporter who traveled with the 26th Infantry. I realize the uniqueness of the request, but any chance that you know how to contact his descendants? I’m working on a book that will include Mr. Sibley rather prominently.
Many thanks,
K. McCollum
This is a great site. I’ve been doing research on my Grandfathers service in WW I and this has been very informative. He (George A. DiPesa) was a member of the 26th YD, Co. L., 101st Infantry Regiment, A.E.F.
For anyone who is looking for information on relatives who served in the 26th YD, I suggest contacting the Mass ANG Military Museum. They keep all of the military records of service members who were in the 26th YD from 1775 to 1940. The web site is: http://www.or.ng.mil/sites/MA/resources/museum/default.aspx
My father, now deceased, is Sergeant Joe Herman. He was a member of the 26th Infantry, 101 Engineer Battalion, Company B, 1st Platoon during WWII. From reviewing papers I just found may indicate he left Camp Shanks, NY on August 27, 1944 on a ship where it later anchored off of Utah Beach on September 7, 1944. If anyone has any information about him, it would be greatly appreciated.
I JUST CAME ACROSS A OLD PHOTO COMPANY D 103 INFANTRY U.S.A 26. THIS PHOTO WERE IN MY GRANDPARENTS THINGS. I’M TRYING TO FIND OUT WHAT GRANDFATHER WAS IN THIS PHOTO? LAST NAMES HATTON OR BUTLER . ANY IDEAS? THANK YOU THIS IS A GREAT SITE.
Greetings,
A dear, old, friend of mine from long ago, August “Jack” Girard from Connersville, PA, born in March of 1896, passed away in March of 1999 at 103! He was one of the finest people I’ve ever known. He was in the 102nd. Infantry and fought in the Meuse Argonne. Subsequently, he received commendation medals for his gallantry there. I’ve been searching extensively for any information about his unit, service, etc. to no avail. Years ago he told me that he moved to San Francisco in 1925, where he lived for the rest of his life. I would be grateful for any useful information at all.
Hi I was wondering about my Grandfather’s service in WW1.
His Name was James Graham and was from Natick, Ma. his service stone on his grave says Mass. Company B 101 Infantry.
I can recall as a kids a picture of him and on the reverse the places they fought and some of them saying we fought hard but thats it and I don’t know where the picture went.
Thanks
Bonjour je suis francais et ne parles pas du tout americain. je trouve votre site sympahique et étant moi meme passionné de la 26 YD. En effet j’habite au pied du chemin des dames et avec un ami aussi passionné nous faisons visiter une carriere ou de nombreux soldats de la 26 YD ont gravés leur nom sur la paroi et ont laissé de nombreux dessins et gravuresen février et mars 1918. si vous voulez je pourrai vous envoyer des photos de cette carriere.
bonne continuation
Wonderful site!
My grandfather, David Sanford Cutler (1894-1926), was a 1st. lieutenant with the 103 Infantry and was stationed in Liffol-le-Grand for a while, arriving October 1917. I think his captain was named either Call or Hanson–or they both were. His parents lived in NYC at the time, but David had been living and working in Cambridge, MA. when he signed up for officer training school at Plattsburg NY. I am trying to pin down his company and figure out its exact movements, although I know they were involved in both Chateau-Thierry and St. Mihiel. I also know he was wounded and/or gassed a couple of times. Any help you can offer would be great. Thanks.
Hi – My Grandfather was part of the 51st Artillery HQ CO
I have some photo’s I believe taken in New Haven that I believe include a photo of Sgt Stubby – there is a group photo with the dog – I blew up the photo and I do not recognize my grandfather. I have about 30 photo’s from that time.
Bonjour Patrick Valissant,
Je fais un peu de recherche pour un vieil homme de mon village. Son grand-pere etait soldat a Chemin des Dames en mars 1918. Il s’appellait Seth Avery Beeker ou Beaker. Il etait hopitalise aussi en avril 1918 mais il n’est pas mort en France. Si vous trouvez de trace de lui, veuillez-vous me le dire? Mon address email c’est;
susanshoup250@hotmail.com
merci bien. Vous habitez pres de ces endroits en France?
My name is william Hart and I live in New York. My father served in WWI with the Yankee Division. He was from Newton Mass. and served with the 51st. Infantry Brigade 101 Infantry Regiment, Co I., formerly with 5th Infantry Masss Nat. Guard Company C.(ID 60,333). His name was William J. Wolfe #60333. If anyone has any pictures of this unit and or company C i would appreciate a contact. I don’t have much info. on him because he passed in August 1963. It’s been a long hard struggle trying to find out information. Im 67 now and time is getting short .Anybody help. Thanks William Hart billh87@optonline.net
Hello,
In response to Rosemary Seal’s note of last July, I can provide the following information. The name penciled into her book is Rolly Frey, who, on the night of 13 July, along with Corp. Joe St. Lawrence, Ralph Shirley, Walter Johnson and Frank Shaw were hit by shell fire while working in the ravine where it goes under the road to Lucy-le-Bocage. The St. Lawrence and Shirley were both killed and the other three later died of their wounds. My father, who was a member of the 14th Squad of Company F, 101st Engineers,relayed to me that St Lawrence was rather superstitious and did not want to go out that night, it being Friday the 13th and him being in the 13th Squad. Every member of that squad was either killed or wounded by that shell. My father was in the 14th Squad and had dirt thrown on him as he lay there but was otherwise unharmed. There are photographs of the members of Company F in the back of the book “The Story of Company F” written after the war by a committee of the company. The library at the Army War College in Carlisle, PA has a copy. As far as I have been able to determine, only Companies A, D, and F had histories published.
A wonderful site. I am trying to find any of my grandfather’s military service. His name was Joseph E. Ball. He filled out the Draft Registration card in Anderson, McDonald County, Missouri, May 26, 1917. He is buried in the Santa Fe NM National Cemetary. The records show that he was a bugler in Battery B, 102 FA, 26th Div.
I have not been able to locate any information at all.
Do you have any suggestions?
Thank you.
Sandi-
The National Archives is a great resource for military information. There is a form online that you can fill out. It costs money, but only if they find something. Since many WWI records were destroyed, there isn’t much, but if it exists, they’ll have it. I’ve gone there personally and the people in charge of pulling this information are really great. I’d start there. Rachel
My grandfather was a member of the 26th YD, I believe the 103rd Artillery, Battery B. His name was Alfred Trow Heaton. If anyone has any information on his service it would be greatly appreciated
Rick
My great uncle, Pvt. Casimir Jaworski, was in Co. K, 104 Infantry Reg. of the 26th. I have a letter from the commanding officer, Major General Edwards, in which he received special commendation for action in the Bois Brule sector from April, 2 1918 thru April 14th. It is an extract from General Orders No. 40 dated May 13 1918. My brother and I are trying to get additional information about his service in order to have a proper grave marker installed.
Bill
Bill, I was in the Bois Brule just a few days ago. In fact my husband and I are spending 3 weeks here in France on WWI things and we are now in the area of the Somme. We were also at the St. Mihiel Cemetery (American cemetery) in Thiaucourt where we paid respects in particular to the Yankee Division. My grandfather David Cutler was 2nd lieutenant, 103rd Infantry, later transferred to 101st Inf. I can only tell you Pvt. Jaworski must have been a brave man indeed; the Germans held that sector until the battle that began 12 Sept 1918.
Best wishes. Ellen
@Dorothea, Apr 9, 2011: I would be interested in seeing your picture. My grandfather David Cutler was 2nd lieutenant, 103rd infantry, co. D. Would you consider sending me a jpeg of the image? I have David’s letters and something might be gleaned from those that you would find interesting. Ellen ebcutler@verizon.net
Writing from France having just spent a day at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery. Simply extraordinary experience. Flora Nicolas (nicolas@abmc.gov), the Cemetery Associate spent a long time reviewing the history of the war, explaining the map, and seeing how she could integrated the experience of my grandfather David Cutler into it all. Then she handed me the key the the 26th church so I could go in. Nothing so special as silence. Flora is also working with the head of the 26th Division’s archives at the Worcester (MA) Armory to create databases and records for all the soldiers. I am sure you know this but I thought I would mention it anyway.
Are we aware that there is no longer any financial support for the preservation and maintenance of the church? I would like to pass this along because it seems like this may be the moment to organize a gift (like the day’s pay each surviving member of the 26th gave so that the church could be built).
Finally, on 11/11/11, President Nicolas Sarkozy will preside over the opening of the Museum of the Great War in Meaux. The event has been pushed back from 11:00 to 3:00 and we are hoping that we non-dignitaries will be able to make it in that evening. Next day is the flight home so this is a special opportunity.
I took some photographs at the cemetery and in the church. They include all the panels of the dead of the 26th in the church. I’d be happy to send copies to anyone who can provide a name or a unit.
My great uncle George M. “Dick” Wallace was a 2nd lieutenant in Company D of the 103rd Machine gun Battalion (52nd Brigade, 26th Division). I have his diaries; he wrote every day from Oct 9, 1917 to Dec 5 1918 and 93 pages of letters that I transcribed . Truly, it’s fascinating. Some photos as well.
That is a national treasure you have there and if there was a way the letters and diaries should be made available on line here and copies sent the Smithsonian and recorded for history.
Bill is right! So many of us have similar legacies. I was wondering if Soldiers Mail might provide a link to a few of the most appropriate archives? Would that be the Armory in Worcester? Maybe the Massachusetts Historical Society? Something like that? It is also important to remember that letters, diaries and photographers are “ephemera.” The containers and climate in which they are stored make a big difference. One should use acid-free archival boxes, for instance. Photographs are often pasted into albums with dangerous paper. I recommend transcribing everything, scanning photographs, and creating digital archives that can be shared with family and otherwise finding a permanent “home” for your collections. That’s my plan, anyway…
I doubt that the Smithsonian would be interested since he was a fairly low ranking officer; however, the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center, located at Carlisle Barracks, Penn very probably would. They have an extensive collection of published works as well as those compiled by individuals. For example, some years ago they sent questionaires to a number of living WWI Army vererans and their responses are filed by unit and available to researchers, or just to the curious. They can be contacted at:
U..S. Army Heritage and Education Center
950 Soldiers Drive
Carlisle, PA 17013-5021
SO far I have transcribed all the letters and scanned them as well and scanned all the pages of the diaries and the photos I have as well. I have some really large battle maps…. Any suggestions as how to preserve those as opposed to just leaving them in a ziploc bag where they have been stored for some time????
Here is a site link to archiving methods and materials that you may find helpful. Very exciting to hear about the progress in capturing the George Wallace Collection! http://www.archivalmethods.com/news/Archiving-Methods/Aged-maps-and-documents-require-protection-from-light$800564577.cfm
My Father fought witht he 26th Infantry Division with the Maine naational Guard. He was with Battery A, 101st Trench Mortar Battery. He had memories of seeing the mustard gas and talked about walking behind the tanks with his buddies during the battles in which they engaged. I have a Belgian Luger he said he took from a dead Germand soldier. I also have his medals naming the battles in which he fought.
He spent the rest of his life working to help veterans.
Where can I read more about his battery and the Maine troops who were in France in WW I?
Very good blog with great information.
My Grandfather, Claiborne Medine Sr. from Louisiana served in WW1 in France. Recently found an old tin that contained a picture of him in uniform near an motorcyle and a bronze shield shaped medal that he probably received for his service. The front has fleur di lys at each point of the shield and a star with a circle and cross in the middle. The words I.C.C. Monstrat.Viam are in the circle. 1741 is on the cross within the circle. The back of the medal has the following: Presented by the Veteran Association Independent Corps Cadets Massachusetts 1917 -1918. The medal has a faded orange ribbon on it which may have been red at one time. I am interested in learning more about his service and this medal. Any suggestions on where I could start?
What you have is one of the many unofficial decorations awarded to members of the Armed Forces after the war. It seems that almost every state, county, city and town had its own award. Specifically, yours was awarded to members of the 101st Engineer Regiment, 26th Division. The Regiment was made up from the Independent Corps of Cadets plus some Coastal Artillery units from Maine. Becoming engineers was the only way they could get to France as a unit.
The ribbon was originally red in color and attached to the medal by a bar at the bottom which read “overseas service”. At the top of the ribbon was a bar with pin for attaching to the uniform which read “101st Regiment U.S. Engineers” on two lines.
You might try the U.S. Army Center for Historical Studies. They have a large collection of books on all U.S. Army units, many of which have personnel rosters attached. Best of luck in your search.
Thanks for this great blog. I have my father’s enlistment and discharge paper and I’m lucky to have this because his records were lost in that famous fire where the government house WWI Army records.
My father served in the Yankee Division – 26th and he was in the 102nd Supply Company as a wagoner. Can you tell me what the supply company did, what a wagoner did and would have have been his only duty?
Thanks so much for your help. I’ve been unable to find any of this online.
Lucie
Lucie,
A supply company moved various items usually from depots to the unit to which attached. This could be food, ammunition, clothing, or any other things needed. The wagonner drove and maintained the wagons which were used at the time, although trucks were also available they were not as plentiful as the wagons. If you want to read part of the diary of a wagonner in a supply company, do a search for http://www.war-diary.com/worldwar1 and scroll down to the name Schulte. Joseph Schulte was a wagoneer in the 330th supply company so would have performed duties similar to your father’s.
Good luck and happy searching.
Soldier’s Mail is a wonderful website honoring those brave and loyal men and women from the New England who served this country in WW1.
My father in law Sgt. John Edward Blake served in Co B 101st Engineers Yankee Division (YD). He received a Purple Heart for wounds in combat in France. Sgt. Blake was born in March 15, 1893 at Easton, Massachusetts and died in Haverhill, Massachusetts Aug 14, 1956.
Sgt. Blake’s injuries included severe shrapnel, to difficult to remove surgically, causing considerable suffering the rest of his life.
If anyone has information of Sgt. Blake, or Co B of the 101 Engineers, I would appreciate to opportunity to correspond with that person or persons. Thank you.
H. M. Faulkner
Maine
Email: hfaulk01@gmail.com
Hi Mr Faulkner,
First off thankyou for your Father In-laws service.
My Grand Father and great Uncle were both in Company B during the Great War. (Pvt. Melvin Campbell and Pvt. Alonzo Campbell) so they must have known Sgt Blake. They were both from Wells,ME. I have a book on the 26th Div that i got on Ebay (It comes up every once and a while) I have a book on Company B and it mention Sgt Blake,
He was in charge of unloading materials from a French train that was in a exposed area so they had to do the unloading at night and would often get shelled by the Germans it mentions that he and 2 other Sergeants did an excellent job handling the situation as well as getting the materials to where they had to go
There is a tounge in cheek blurb about some of the soldiers in the back of the book and this is what it Says…
John E Blake
Of Brockton was handicapped in his career as a soldeir as he got his early training in the corps instead of “The Brockton Rifle club” (He never saluted Arthur Blackey in his life) He is a tall guy in a tin hat Has the appearance of a man you’d hate to meet in a dark alley. He got “Bumped” twice ;once with gas and again with shrapnel. We read that he Licked an MP in Bazoilles but we don’t believe it. He is a rotten billeting officer and a darn good scout. His Father thinks “Jack” won the war.I wonder who told him.
It also mentions him under enlisted wounded…
JOHN E BLAKE jr.
Wounded slightly at La Cense France July 21 1918
Sounds like he had the respect and admiration of the men under him and you should feel very proud.
There is also a Massachusetts National Guard Museum down in Worcester.They would probably have some valuable info as well.
I
have a long photo of Company B (again Ebay)
that i think could be copied if you wanted to bring it to a copier store.
I did not see any specific Sgt’s (They are all wearing Trench coats and the only ones that looks different are the Officers.though I do think i see an overseas stripe so it might be right after the war (My Grandfather was discharged in 1919 and he is in it so would not be long after the war)
Hope this was helpful
SSgt Campbell,
Could you tell me the title and author of the Company B history? I knew Companies A, D, and F had histories but not Company B.
Thank you
I have one photo and one scan of another photo of my maternal grandfather in uniform without any insignia in early 1918. On the back of my photo my grandmother notes that “This was taken at Camp Carson in early 1918. He was a PFC about to go overseas in WWI. He was a sharpshooter in France” The scan of the other photo, which is in the possession of a relative in Iowa, has a caption that says “William H. Steen in broad brimmed campaign hat of WWI doughboy, Camp Pike, Arkansas 1918″. As far as I have been able to piece together, PFC Steen was drafted in Madison County, IA. He completed BT at Camp Pike, and AT at Camp Carson. Then he was shipped overseas to France. I have found a reference that indicated he was in Company M, 102nd Infantry 26th Division in France, but no other details of his service overseas. His military gravestone states simply “Pvt 102 Inf 26 Div”. Where can I get more information?
my dads name was frank gillespie he served as a pvt.,co.B102MG Bn.captured by the enemy and held prisoner of war from 04/20/18 to12/06/18.prior to going to france he mentioned beingin texas chasing Villa. he did not talk about this part of his life .any info. on him or his unit would be great.he passed in 72.a great dad!
i served in army 59-62
I am researching my Grand father being part of the Yankee Division that went to Chateau Thierry. I have photos of him one on a horse and the other amongst the tents at a camp. I have been told he was in the National Guard. He lived in New Britain Ct. I have also been told he did make a trip to Texas? possibly New Mexico when her served. As he supposedly entered the service at 16 years old, but lied about his age. He was born 3/10/1899. Name William Anderson ( no middle name).
I have read the book about the History of Troop A, Cavalry CT national Guard. the Co.D 102nd Machine gun Battalion. It gives a list of men that served, but he is not listed. Also look up the Book about Troop B again he is not listed. My father still has my Grnadfathers dogtags.Will the number on these tags help me find what Troop he was attached with?
Thanks to you Rich & Soldiers Mail
I’ve found frank gillespie service #109529 enlisted into the N.G. July 3, 1916 at Framingham, Mass. and active duty in the U.S. ARMY July25, 1917. After reading your page 7 on the 8th Mass. Infantry I’m guessing he was on the horse he told me about in Texas. Came back to Mass., got activated in the army, between july 1916&july 1917, then sent to France. Was captured in the village of Seicheprey. Next stop for me the Museum in Worcester. What a story for his great grand kids!
thanks again
Rance
My grandfather, Elzy Benton Stutes, served with Company D, 103rd Machine Gun Battalion and was gassed during the war. Is there any record of the combat engagements of this unit?
My Grandfather was from New Britain,CT and served with company I, 102nd Infantry. Right now I am reading,”Yankee Division” by Michael Shay (AmazonBooks). In his book he tells where the different companies fought. My Grandfather appears to have fought at Seicheprey April 20th 1918, I do see a Company D mentioned there. And I do see that my Grandfather fought at Chateau Thierry, which I knew, but the book does confirm this. You may want to purchase the book to read.
My grandfather, Caulie Hendricks was apparently a member of Co G, 102 Inf, 26th Div towards the end of his service during WWI. He was apparently a “replacement” which would explain how a southern boy from Florida became a member of the “Yankee” Division! He would have been in from somewhere in late 1918 or early 1919 until his discharge in April, 1919. Anything anyone could add to illuminate his service during that time would be appreciated.
Paul M. Hendricks, MD
To find info on my Grandfather, I knew he started out in the CT National Guard. But when I found his Dogtags from WWI, it gave me his Company info. personal ID number etc.. So I obtained a SF 180 form. This form allows next of kin to request Military Records of family members who served in any military service. You can research this info on the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) site. There are different addresses for different branches of the service,i.e. Navy,Army,Marine,Coast Guard,Air Force. I used this form when I wrote the CT National Guard whose address is: State of Connecticut, Military Dept. ATTN. Historical Records 360 Broad St. Rm #113, Hartford,Ct 06105-3795.
Currently I am writting the National Personnel Records Center, (Military Personnel Records) 9700 Page Ave. St. Louis,MO 63132-5100 or you can visit web site at http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/ .This address is to find info on all men who served in the Army from 11/1/1912-10/15/1992. But againyou need a copy of the (Standard form)SF 180 to request this info. Hope this helps your search. I found lots of info this way.
Donna Blews
You were fortunate; most of the records of servicemen were destroyed in a fire at that facility, I believe in the 70′s.
Yes, I knew about the fire and was always afraid I would not be able to find info on my Grandfather.The thing though, is, when I recieved info from the CT N.G. in the info they sent me three photos copies which were taken from what appears a book.The first 2 page copies were a partial roster of names of men who served in WWI from Connecticut. They were trying to show me all the men with the last name Anderson who served, but the first page of names starts with the last name Amsel, and the second page ends with the last name Angell. It gives the mens first and middle initial and the town in CT where they lived at the time then a series of numbers. The number appear to be page numbers. For the 3rd photo copied page has the series of number in the upper left corner and is titles CT Roster 1917-1920 New Britain,CT. My grandfathers name is there, and the info listed includes the street address where he lived,the town he came from,when he enlisted his age at the time the Company he belonged to when he was drafted into the regular army his rank to the end of the war, the battles he fought in when he was wounded, and when he was discharged. On this page there are 9 other Andersons, 2 men by the last name of Andres,and 6 men by the last name of Andrews. Each man has all his info listed. I found it odd that my Grandfathers complete info is here as he was drafted into the regular Army and out of the N.G. so for those who know their relitive served in the Guard contact them as they appear to have info on the men. Especially if your relitives military recoards may have been sadly lost in the archive fire in St. Louis,MO
Donna Blews
I am a volunteer for findagrave website and have taken a photo of a gravestone which says: Frank McKeen/ Massachusetts/ PVT 101 Infantry. 26 Division. September 13 1938. In another place I found he was part of Co C. 5th Regiment Mass. Is this part of the 26th? Is there any additional information that might be nice to include in his bio or of interest?
Check first with the Massachusetts National guard archives. As like my granfather he joined the CT National Guard first and then was drafted into the regular U.S. Army infintry.
Donna
I just checked out the Mass National Guard archive web site, and they have lots of wonderful info there. Plus you can visit their museum in Worcester,Mass.
Donna
I am looking for any information on Private Charles Marino, who was awarded the DSC for his heroic action while serving with Company L, 104th Infantry Regiment, 26th Division, A.E.F., at Bois Brule, near Apremont, France, 10 April 1918. I understand that he passed away in September 1918 from wounds he suffered during the war.
I inherited a 1916 Mauser C96 pistol with his name and the names of several battlefields the 26th fought in engraved by hand. I would like to history on Private Marino and this pistol.
Thank you.
There is currently on offer in eBay a history of the 104th Inf Regt which would very likely have information about a DSC winner.
Thew 104th was a Massachusetts regiment of the Massachusetts National Guard…you can contact the Mass. National guard, Military Records Branch, office of the Adjutant General, at 1(508)233-7780 or visit the Mass National Guard Museum at 44 Salisbury St. Worcester,Ma. # for museum 1 508 797-0334
Donna
Definitely check with the National Guard in MA. I contacted them for information on my grandfather, and they sent me quite a bit of information on him.
According to my mother, my grandfather was part of this unit. His name was John Edward Walsh from Somerville, Ma. How can I find out what unit he was with?
As your Grandfather was from Massachusetts, start with the Mass National Guard for Archived WWI records. http://states.ng.mil/sites/MA/DevLibrary2/resources/museum/museum.htm
My Great Uncle Francis Murphy was part of the Yankee Division and the Mass National Guard. He received the Purple Heart, Silver Star, Croix de Guerre for action at Chateau Thierry and Belleau Wood. Any additional info??? Rumor had it they wanted to make him an officer at the end of May, but they kicked him down to a buck Private by September. Smoething about a french girl an american officer and a punch to the head.
He worked at the VA Hospital in Waltham following the war.
Hello Mr. Coffey-
Try the Massachusetts National Guard archives. I contacted them for my Grandfather’s records with the Yankee Division and Mexican border service. They were very quick and helpful.
To the best of my knowledge, my grandfather David J. Hampton was a member of the 101st ammunition train ( I have a circular dog tag stamped with the abbreviation that belonged to him). He was from Pennsylvania, assigned initially to Camp Meade (Sept. 20, 1917), and transferred to Camp Merrit before sailing. He either set sail Apr 1, 1918 or arrived in Europe on that date. But from what I see here ( and other places) , 101st amm tn was Yankee Div. Were men from Pennsylvania absorbed into that division?
yes that is correct..after the initial 26th division men from all the National Guards in New England were wounded or killed they drew from other States to fill in the different divisions as the fighting continued till 11/11/1918
Also if you watch the movie “the Lost Battalion” you will understand this portion of WWI towards the end of the Great War.
Hello. I am a member of the Littleton Historical Society. We need information on a 1926 movement of troops through the town of Littleton–specifically where they bivouacked in our town–Where was the Tingley Farm ?–and where else did the 3 regiments camp on their march to Boston ? Thank you.
I am looking for information on William E. Carter he has a post named after him I know he served with the AEF in France
I am looking for help researching my 1st cousin, Dr. (Capt) Bernard H. Lovely who served as a surgeon with the 101st Field Hospital – 26th Infantry Division. He died 8 years after the war at age 33. Does anyone know of any photo sources or unit histories. I have what I could get from the National Archives as far as his military records. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
The U.S. Army Historical Division at Carlisle Barracks, PA has an extensive collection of Signal Corps photos sorted by unit. If you can get there I’ve found them very helpful.
Hello…when your cousin enlisted, what state did he live in at that time?
As most of the men enlisted in the National Guard first before being drafted into the US service, you may be able to find his further information by writting the State National Guard or the State Adjutant General for further info. These are the two places I found the must information on my 2 grandfathers as their information was burned in the National Archive fire back in the 1970s…..Donna
Greetings,
My grandfather, William James Mara, was in the 101st Engineer Regiment from MA (Wagoneer). He received a purple heart, which I now have, due to being “severaly wounded” and processed out at Camp Devans, MA. as a Sgt. I can’t seem to find out the circumstances of his injuries or where it happened. I have a photo of him after the war and he’s missing all but one finger on his left hand. Any suggestions on where to look for an answer ?
Thanks
Finding how they were wounded is difficult. Same with my Grandfather,I knew he had one finger missing, and wound in his leg because he showed me the scar on his leg. The WWI records were lost in the Arcive fire so that would have destroyed his medical records as well. Because my Grandfather re enlisted in WWII, for the enlistment they did a physical exam, and listed his missing finger, tattoos,how tall he was weight,color of hair etc, did not list the scar on his leg, some how they missed that one. And in his WWI medical exam they wrote how he was wounded 2 time during WWI. Tha is how I was able to recieve his Purple Heart.
Donna
I have wonerful information to share for those looking for information about their relitives that were “wounded” in WWI. As I do not have the information on the circumstances of the wounding of my second grandfather,Henry E lambert, but am trying earn his “purple Heart”,I sent his info to the Awards Dept of Human Resorces of the Dept. of the Army. The Army wrote me the following info:
“Supporting documentation for Mr. Lamberts injury and treatment for wounds in the Defensive Sector, France, in april, 1918, while assigned to Company K, 103rd Machine gun Battalion, 52d Infantry Brigade, 26th Infantry Division may be available from the “National Archives at College Park”, which maintains archived records from WWI era Army Units and headquarters commands. You may write them at the following address: National Archives at college Park, ATTN: Textual Reference Branch, 8601 Adelphi Rd. College Park, MD 20740-6001.
The National Archives are an excellent scource of information concerning military units and their history. A review of archived records from his units may locate supporting documentation, unit reports, hopsital treatment records ,unit journal entries, and other documents pertaining to his awards of the Citation for Gallantry in Action.”
Donna(Anderson) blews
Thanks you for the reply.
Robert
Thanks again.
I’ll give it a try
Hi,
Can you help me with these pictures I posted on my blog?
http://steanne.wordpress.com/2012/08/29/tired-of-reading-this-blog-about-our-ancestors/
These are taken in Bristol, Connecticut. I have one distant cousin who was killed in Francein 1917. His name was William Lagasse. I wrote this about him last year when I found out about the battle he was in.
http://athabaskang07.wordpress.com/2010/09/11/its-a-long-way-to-tipperary/
Thank you
October 8, 2012
Greetings from Miami and U.S. SOUTHERN COMMAND,
I am trying to find information about my grandfather: Thomas F. Doherty who served in France and Mexico with -
Co. G. 101st INFANTRY 26th Division Y.D.
1917-1918-1919
My grandfather: Born in Woburn, MASSACHUSETTS I believe 1899. He died of mustard gas poisoning effects at the age of 40 years old leaving his wife (Alice M. Donohue) with four children.
My father (USN Korean conflict, LIttle Creek Va.) passed down to me my grandfather’s , “The New Testament of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ”, special edition for the Army and Navy with a Foreword by His Eminenece James Cardinal Gibbons, published by The National Catholic War Council of 932 14th St NW, Washington D.C. for The Chaplains’ Aid Association, copyright 1918.
Thank you for your time and this wonderful web site.
Sincerely,
Thomas F. Doherty Jr.
This is a Great Site!
My Grandfather was in the 101st Ammo Train. I am trying to do research on where he was and what he did during WW I. Are there any rosters from 101st Ammo Train that are listed online?
His gravestone says “CPL CO B 101 AMMO TRAIN WORLD WAR I PH”
I believe this means – Corpral Company B of the 101st Ammo Train – not sure what PH means?
Dean
Very likely: Purple Heart
I just found a great reference in regards to Yankee Division: The National Guard Military Museum and Archives’. The Museum is in the historic National Guard Armory in Worcester Massachusetts. Working there is one of the best historian of the Yankee Division (Col (ret) Len Kondratiuk) in particular the men of Massachusetts that fought in the war. The website with the contact information is: http://states.ng.mil/sites/MA/DevLibrary2/resources/museum/museum.htm
Col Kondratiuk was able to quickly call up my Grandfather’s data card which basically had all the information on the what, when and how of his service. I highly recommend calling the National Guard Military Museum to find out those long lost pieces of information that you may not been able to obtain. I know I search for a very long time to find out any information until I stumbled onto this web site. I early asked on what the PH meant on my Grandfathers headstone….. “CPL CO B 101 AMMO TRAIN WORLD WAR I PH” Len quickly told me that meant “Purple Heart”. This was reinforced on my Grandfather’s data card.
Happy Hunting!
Dean
Keep in mind that the men in WWI first earned the “Wound Chevron” for being wounded. The “Wound Chevron” was equal to the “Purple Heart” back then. The men who earned the “Wound Chevron” were encouraged to apply for the “Purple Heart” when this medal was authorized in the 1930s. If you wish you can apply for a replacement of your Grandfathers “Purple Heart” by writing the Army Human Resources Command, Awards & Decorations Dept…I have just earned my Grandfathers “Purple Heart”, and have his “Wound Chevron”. I am currently searching out info on my second Grandfather to apply for his “Purple Heart” for being wounded in WWI. You can also get replacements for awards and medals through the American War Library, in California. In searching out info on my Grand fathers, both, I start with the National Guard to find their info. then I write to the National Personnel Records CEnter, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Ave. St. Louis, Missouri 63132-5100. Due to a fire in the early “70s many WWI records were last but if you speak to someone there, they can direct you. As recently they informed me to contact the Veterans Adminstration for help as well..Donna
Thanks, I’ll give it a shot. My grandfather received a PH also. One of his sons gave it to me before he passed away.
Keep this important fact in mind when you are trying to research any of these men from WWI; try to get the Personal MIlitary ID, (Dog Tag #). when you have this number you will be able to get more info on them. The National Guard of the State he lived in will have this info. Also keep in mind, that these men are eligable for other medals and awards,i.e: WWI Victory Medal, and Honorable Discharge Pin as most after being wounded were Honorably Discharged. These are still avaliable to the family members again from the Army Awards and Decorations Dept. (free of charge to veteran families) or you can register any service person from any war with the American War Library(they have a wedsite) so long as you have their DD-214 or in the case of WWI men who did not have a DD-214, some form of information that has their Personal Military ID # on it ,they will send you a (form 201A) that will list all the awards and medals they are eligable to recieve (these you must purchase). I did this for both my grandfathers and have recieved all of the above medals though I am still reasearching medical info on my second Grandfather to prove his wounding in the Defensive sector. If anyone wishes to learn more you can contact me wdpap01@comcast.net.
Donna
10OCT2012, Sunday
It is a real joy to read the above inputs….my thanks to each of you. I will look for the phone number in order to call the National Guard Museum and Archives in Worcester….in fact I’ll be up in MASSACHUSETTS for Thanksgiving holiday (Woburn and Winchester high school football game – - one of the oldest traditions in the fine Commonwealth of Massachusetts).
My hope is to find out more about my grandfather and where he was with comrades of his generation during those years 1917 – 1919 as he marked in his U.S. ARMY field-issued New Testament, “In France and Mexico).
Wishing all 101st family members of our forebears continued success finding more information about our loved ones so we can share that personal history with our children – their great-grandchildren and future generations.
Sincerely, Tom Doherty
…from the city of Woburn, Massachusetts – high school teams known as “the Tanners” – we had many tanning-hides factories, a prideful history in MIddlesex County.
Thanks for the info. I have the actual PH Medal in my possession, I just don’t know the circumstances behibd it’s issuance.
National Guard Museum and Archives in Worcester is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free of charge.
Researchers should call at least one day in advance.
Phone: (508) 797-0334
Email: museum@ng.army.mil
Location: 44 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609
Enjoy Dean
I would like to re-submit the information about my second grandfather, Hanrey E. Lambert, serial #69210, as he was with the 26th Yankee Division. He joined the New Hampshire National Guard in April of 1917. First in , Co L 1st Inf NH NG (Co L 103 Inf) to Sept 1917 then to Co K, 103 Inf to discharge.According to other information, I obtained he was with co K,103rd Machine gun Battalion, 52nd Infantry Brigade,26th Infantry Division when he was wounded. He was a Private then became Private 1st class in January 1919. Henry was stationed at Camp Keyes, Concord, NH, Camp Bartlett, Westfield,Mass.,Camp Devens,Mass. Henry was with the AEF from 9/29/1917 to 4/5/1919. Hanry saw fighting at Champagne-Marne, Aisne-Marne, Str. Mihiel, Muse Argonne and was stationed in the Defensive Sector. Henry was wounded in the Defensive Sector on 10/4/1918; bei8ng wounded in the hand. Henry was Honorably discharged on 4/28/1919. I had previously submitted his bio and a photo which had been posted but now I do not see him on the memorial page. Would like to re-submit his photo again…Donna (Anderson) Blews
my uncle was in the 26 div. he was drafted from Minn and shipped out overseas Apr 1918. I had four uncles in France in different units and have their letters and to each other, Fun to read.
I recently found the following info about my great-grandfather’s half brother Frank J Hurley:
Hurley, Frank J., Sergeant: died 24 July [1 Aug.'], 1918, of wounds received in action, in Trugny Wood.
Enl. 12 July, 1916, Co. H, 9th Inf., Mass. N. G. Reported for duty 25 March, 1917; mustered 3 April, Co. H, 9th Inf., Mass. N. G. (Co. H, 101st Inf., 26th Div.). Corporal 20 Aug., 1917. Sergeant 18 May, 1918. Overseas 7 Sept., 1917.
Born 1893, in Ireland, son of Daniel and Margaret Hurley (both deceased); brother of Mrs. Nora Cahalane of Roxbury. Clerk. Resident in Massachusetts eleven years.
I understand he may have won the French Croix de Guerre. I also believe that he was originally buried in France, but he body was then reinterred in the States, probably in Roxbury or Jamaica Plain.
I found this today on newspaperarchive.com. Can I post newspaper articles? It provides some insight into the war using a letter written by Frank Hurley.
Boston Evening Globe, Friday, April 26, 1918
Croix de Guerre for Frank J Hurley
Corp Frank J Hurley of Co H, 101st Infantry, whose home is at 22 Lawn St, Roxbury has received the Croix de Guerre from the French Government for gallantry in action. This word came in a letter from the front dated March 7 (1918) to Harry Lawrence of 60 Walson St, Roxbury, and intimate friend of Corp Hurley’s. The letter says in part:
“We have been in the trenches and are now out again, but in a few days we are going in for a longer stay and we hope with God’s care to come out as safe as we did the first time. We were very lucky in the first lines, and we went in and came out without losing a man. It was a good experience for the man, that being under fire the first night. We were all rather nervous, but after the first day or two everything was all right”.
The Colonel reviewed the regiment yesterday and some of the men were presented with the French War Crosses. Frank Hurley was among those who received the award. They were honored so because of the part they took in a raiding party which went over the German lines and captured a few prisoners. They returned safely with the exception of a few Frenchmen. Hurley said it was the most exciting moment of his life when they entered the enemy lines and met the Huns face to face.
“Yesterday, we also had an evening parade, just like those we used to have in Framingham., and when the band marched in front of the regiment once more, it made us think back to the happy days at Framingham, when we didn’t know we were well off. We are now just back on the 3rd line, held in reserve. Our daily work is putting up barbed wire entanglements. In fact, we have done that every time we hit the trenches, and it is no cinch. It is wicked on my hands.
Frank Hurley, to whom the writer refers, joined the old 9th regiment at the time of the trouble at the Mexican border. Before joining the regiment, he was employed at a wholesale leather house in Boston. He is 23 years old and was born in Ireland, coming to this country when he was about 10 years old. His parents are both dead and his nearest of kin is Mrs Nora Callahan (s/b Cahalane), his sister, 22 Lawn St, Roxbury.
Hi
Can you help?
I seek any information on the battle in which Sherwood K Martin Co. G 102nd Infantry was wounded during WW1. I seek any military information on Martin.
Thanks
Chris Carroll
BA History NCWC
nchistory@hotmail.com
Hello Chris…My Grandfather was with the 102nd Infantry as well, but with Company I. I have the book “Connecticut Fights, the story of the 102nd Regiment. I looked up Pvt.Sherwood K. Martin, from Co. K. who was from South Manchester, Ct. and the book does list his name as being wounded in action. Write to the “State of connecticut, Military Dept. 360 Broad Street, Hartford, Ct. 06105-3706″ as Sherwood would have belonged to the Connecticut National Guard first before being drafted into regular US Service.Connecticut has a book, “Service Records Connecticut, Men & Women in the Armed Forces of the United States During World WAr 1917-1920. This book is from the office of the Adjutant General State Armory, Hartford,CT. When I wrote them and got my Grandfathers information I also recieve two medallions for his service for the State during WWI. those medallions had been waiting for him all this time. Maybe Sherwood has some waiting for him. My Grandfather William C. Anderson and Sherwood may have known one another, my Grandfather was from New Briatin,Ct….As far as the Battle he fought in, the paperwork does not list that, but is does list the date of wounding. You can then take the date and match it up with the dates that coincide with the Battles that happened. My Grandfather was wounded in Action too, his date was 7/22/18 and that date coincided with the 2nd Battle of the Marne. It will list all the Battles Sherwood fought in. My father says my Grandfather did talk about Chateau Theirry ….My grandfathers 2 photos are listed on this site, and reciently I recieved his Purple Heart for being wounded in WWI….I wish you luck…Donna
My uncle was drafted from minn. and placed in the 26th went through training and left for over seas
I am looking for information about my great grandfather Sgt George H Wiechert from Baltimore MD he served in the 26th infantry, company c he was Overseas from 8/13/17 to 2/22/19, and served in these places (Ansauville Sector; Cantigny Sector; Montdidier-Noyon; Cantigny Sector; Aisne-Marne; Saizerais Sector; Ansauville Sector; St Mihiel; Meuse-Argonne). according to “Maryland military men 1917-1918″ records on ancestry.com. i am trying to find out more about his time in world war 1. thank you.
The designator “Infantry” following a number (26th Infantry) refers to a Regiment rather than a Division. During WWI the 26th Infantry Regiment was part of the 2nd Infantry Brigade of the 1st Infantry Division. That tracks with the places he served.
thank you, helps alot