Clyde Aeschliman
Clyde R. Aeschliman was born on August 7, 1918, in Sabetha, Kansas, to Sylvan and Bertha Wegman Aeschliman. He lived a full life, marked by his service during World War II and his dedication to family and community. Clyde married Queva Sell on April 20, 1941, and they went on to have three children together: a son, Douglas, and two daughters, Sharon and Debbie.
Clyde enlisted in the U.S. Army on March 30, 1943, in Peoria, Illinois. Initially assigned to infantry training at Camp Joseph T. Robinson in Arkansas, he developed a strong proficiency in handling various firearms, including the M-1 Garand rifle and the .30 caliber machine gun. Clyde’s enthusiasm for marksmanship became a notable aspect of his military life.
Following his basic training, Clyde was stationed with the 143rd Infantry Regiment, part of the 36th Infantry Division, and later with the 754th Engineer Spare Parts Company. His unit was actively involved in supplying critical spare parts to various military operations in the Mediterranean theater, demonstrating both logistical efficiency and a commitment to supporting frontline troops.
During his service in Italy, Clyde was wounded in the left leg by artillery shell fragments in December 1943. This injury required several weeks of hospitalization, first in Italy and then in North Africa. His recovery was further complicated by an appendicitis operation. Despite these challenges, Clyde showed resilience and courage, qualities recognized by his superiors and comrades alike. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart.
Clyde’s wartime experience was filled with both hardship and camaraderie. He formed close bonds with fellow soldiers and maintained regular correspondence with family and friends back home. Letters from the front lines, shared through newspapers like the Sabetha Herald, conveyed a mix of longing for home and a sense of duty. His cousin, Leonard Aeschliman, noted in one such letter how Clyde’s spirits remained high despite the difficulties, and how he cherished news from home.
Sources:
Here is a list of sources for the narrative about Clyde Aeschliman:
Find a Grave
- Memorial ID: 54354489
- Information on birth and death dates, burial location.
Sabetha Herald
- July 5, 1944, Page 1 and Page 8: Letters describing Clyde’s military experiences, his injury in Italy, and his subsequent recovery and service in North Africa.
- March 1, 1944, Page 1: Information on Clyde’s injury in Italy, hospitalization in North Africa, and award of the Purple Heart.
- July 14, 1943, Page 1 and Page 5: Details on Clyde’s furlough after basic training and his family’s pride in his service.
Courier Tribune
- February 7, 1944, Page 2: Information about Clyde’s hospitalization in North Africa and recovery from an appendix operation.
Woodford County Journal
- December 14, 2000, Page 15: Obituary providing details on Clyde’s life, military service, community involvement, and death.
US WWII Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946
- Details on Clyde’s enlistment date, place, and service information.
US Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010
- Provides confirmation of Clyde’s service period and release date from the military.
US Veterans’ Gravesites, ca 1775-2019
- Confirms burial location and military service details.
US, WWII Hospital Admission Card Files, 1942-1954
- December 1943 and October 1944: Details on Clyde’s injuries, medical treatment, and recovery.
Unit History, US 36th Infantry Division, 1940-1945
- Lists Clyde’s association with the 143rd Infantry Regiment.
Marshall County News
- April 20, 1944, Page 8: Reports on Clyde’s recovery from surgery and communication with his wife.
The Summerfield Sun
- January 6, 1944, Page 4: Reports on Clyde being slightly wounded in Italy and hopes for his recovery.
- August 19, 1943, Page 4: Mentions Clyde’s move from a camp in Arkansas to a replacement camp in Pennsylvania.
The Dawson Herald
- July 22, 1943, Page 1: Information on Clyde’s completion of basic training and his furlough in Sabetha.
- May 11, 1944, Page 2: Report on Clyde being wounded in Italy and receiving the Purple Heart.
The Beatrice Times
- February 28, 1945, Page 3: Mentions Clyde’s service in the Mediterranean theater.
Beatrice Daily Sun
- February 27, 1945, Page 3: Describes Clyde’s service with the 754th Engineer Spare Parts Company.