Wilfred Smith
Wilfred Thomas Smith was born on July 25, 1919, in Seneca, Kansas, to John J. and Elizabeth Gunther Smith. He grew up in Seneca, attending the Blue Star School and Saints Peter & Paul School. Before his military service, he worked for Nemaha County in the Roads Department. On February 4, 1939, Wilfred married Marie H. Rosengarten in Topeka, Kansas, and together they had a son, Donald Smith.
Wilfred Smith’s military journey began on September 22, 1944, when he enlisted in the U.S. Army at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He served in the 34th Infantry Regiment of the 24th Division, a unit deployed in the South Pacific during World War II. His deployment saw him engaged in several critical battles across the Pacific, where he displayed courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
The 24th Infantry Division, which Wilfred was a part of, played a significant role in the Pacific Theater. After initial occupation duties in the Hollandia area, the division was assigned to X Corps of the Sixth United States Army in preparation for the invasion of the Philippines. On October 20, 1944, the 24th Division landed on Leyte Island, encountering fierce Japanese resistance. The division advanced through the Leyte Valley, capturing strategic positions such as Jaro and Breakneck Ridge in heavy combat.
Wilfred and his regiment continued their assault across various islands, moving from Leyte to Mindoro and then to Luzon. On Luzon, the 34th Infantry Regiment, which included Wilfred, faced intense battles at locations such as Zig Zag Pass and Corregidor, suffering significant casualties. The division then moved to Mindanao, where they engaged in further combat operations, clearing Japanese forces from the island.
During his service in the Philippines, Wilfred was wounded twice. On May 29, 1945, he was slightly wounded on Mindanao, an injury that necessitated hospitalization. Prior to this, he had sustained another injury to his hands and arms, which also required medical attention. Despite these injuries, Wilfred continued to serve with distinction, earning two Purple Hearts for his bravery and sacrifice. Due to a head injury sustained during combat, he had a steel plate placed in his head, a lasting reminder of his wartime experiences.
Wilfred’s letters home during this period were a source of comfort for his family, particularly his wife, Marie, who received frequent updates on his status. The hardships and realities of war were a constant backdrop, but Wilfred’s determination and spirit remained undaunted. His family in Seneca, including his parents and siblings, supported him through their correspondence and prayers.
After the war, Wilfred was discharged on April 12, 1946, as a staff sergeant. He returned to his hometown of Seneca, where he resumed civilian life. He worked at the Farmer’s Elevator in Seneca before joining the Seneca Wholesale, where he worked for 35 years, first as a truck driver and later as a salesman. He continued to contribute to his community even after his retirement in 1981, working part-time and assisting at local car dealerships.
Wilfred was an active member of the Saints Peter & Paul Church in Seneca and was involved with the St. Joseph Society, the Earle W. Taylor Post #21 of the American Legion, and the Seneca Memorial Post #7458 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He remained dedicated to his community and his church until his death on November 21, 2000, at the age of 81. He was laid to rest with full military honors at the Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Seneca, Kansas.
Wilfred Thomas Smith’s life is a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who served during World War II. His contributions, both on the battlefield and in his community, reflect the spirit of a generation dedicated to service and sacrifice.
Sources:
Here is a list of sources for the narrative about Wilfred Smith:
- Find a Grave
- Memorial ID: 31430842
- Information on Wilfred’s birth, death, and burial location. Details about his family and military service.
- Courier Tribune
- February 1, 1945, Page 2: Mention of Wilfred’s furlough and travel from Camp Robinson, Arkansas, to Fort Ord, California.
- February 8, 1945, Page 1: Information about Wilfred returning to his camp at AGF Replacement Depot, No. 2, Fort Ord, California.
- February 22, 1945, Page 2: Notice of Wilfred’s change of address.
- April 2, 1945, Page 2: Update on Wilfred’s location in the Philippines.
- June 25, 1945, Page 1: Information about Wilfred being hospitalized in the Philippines due to an infection.
Lauer Funeral Home Obituary
- Details about Wilfred’s life, including his birth and death dates, family, marriage, military service, post-war life, and community involvement.
Wikipedia
- Entry on the “24th Infantry Division (United States)” providing background on the division’s operations in the Pacific Theater during World War II, specifically in New Guinea, Leyte, Luzon, Mindoro, and Mindanao.
Sabetha Herald
- June 27, 1945, Page 3: Updates from Wilfred’s family about his service in the Philippines and injury to his hand.
Courier Tribune
- June 28, 1945, Page 1: Telegram informing Marie H. Smith that Wilfred was slightly wounded on Mindanao, Philippines, on May 29, 1945.
US WWII Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946
- Information on Wilfred’s enlistment date, location, and initial assignments.
The Summerfield Sun
- January 6, 1944, Page 4: Report on Wilfred being slightly wounded in Italy and hope for his recovery.
US Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010
- Provides confirmation of Wilfred’s service period and discharge 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
- Details on Wilfred’s injuries, medical treatment, and recovery while serving in the Pacific Theater.