John Kronlokken February 8, 1889 – November 2, 1918
John
Kronlokken, another Renville County young man, with the Expeditionary Forces in
France has paid the Supreme Sacrifice. We are not informed as to just when he
enlisted with what company he belonged or when he went over-seas, but a thrill
of sadness and mourning passes thru the whole community at the sad news that he
was killed in action in France Nov. 2nd. John Kronlokken was a
brother of Oscar Kronlokken north east from this village and a son of Mr. and
Mrs. Peter Kronlokken, who used to live on a farm about two miles south east of
Renville. The end of the war came very shortly after Mr. Kronlokken’s death. In
bringing about that most desirable of all goals, the successful termination of
the World War, the making of the world safe for democracy, John Kronlokken
offered up his life blood. May a grateful nation never forget the sacrifices
and services so nobly and so unselfishly rendered by John Kronlokken and
thousands of others who will not return with the returning victors nor partake
of the honor and festivities awaiting them.
Floyd
Barber, Formerly of Ericson Township, Describes Feeling of People “Over There”
When War is Won
Somewhere in
France, Nov. 13, ‘18
Dear Folks at
Home;
Hurrah! The war
is won. It is almost too good to be true. I thought I would write a few lines
to let you know I am in the best of health. I was in La Mans night before last
and yesterday. The people there are sure celebrating over the good news. There
were 16 American bands in town today and Allied flags flying everywhere. I’ll
bet this is a blessed thing to the boys at the front. It has been quiet there
two days now. It must seem odd after nearly five years of hell! I guess the
Germans were in worse shape that we thought for they are going to look to the
Allies for food now. After they take all that war stuff away from them, they
can’t fight if they wanted to, which I guess they have got enough of. Uncle Sam
sure did big things since we declared war. Everywhere I go I see American
soldiers.
I haven’t got
any more mail. I am wondering what has become of it. That is one thing I don’t
like about “over here”, we don’t get our mail regular. The chances look good
now for my safe return in good health. It makes me feel sad, when I think of
the brave boys that never will return, and those who have become crippled, and
lost their health. The Government wants a lot of us to stay here and help build
up France again. They have to sign up for eighteen months, and get $150 above
what we get now, and our board and clothes. That would mean a lot of money, but
I don’t believe I could stand to stay here that long. The most of the boys say
there isn’t money enough to keep them here; but I suppose there is lots that
will stay. I hope they get me back to the farm soon to help feed this hungry
world. The farm labor must be awful scarce there now according to what it was
when I left for camp. I hope Victor didn’t have to go, for he is sure needed on
the farm. I know I could do more good there than here now. I hope it isn’t long
before I see you all. I will send you some cards from La Mans. I was through
that wonderful Cathedral again today, and had a better look at it. It sure is
grand, some of the stained glass windows are the first ever brought to Europe.
You can get a little idea of the number of stained glass windows from the
picture. Well I must close for this time as ever your soldier boy.
Floyd O. Barber,
83 Div. Int. School, A. P. O. 762, A. E. F.
Just a note
which I hope reaches you still with the warmth of a good old Minnesota town in
the big U.S.A., which I once left for Uncle Sam who shall soon bring us back
again if we’re fortunate enough to be able to fight it through a few more
weeks, as the end is close at hand, and I’ll miss my guess if every road has
not an end, no matter how long it is.
Well, I would
like to take a chance going home in an aeroplane, otherwise I won’t be lonesome
for them when I do get away from their noise as they sound like shells coming
over, and you can imagine what a funny feeling it may be when there are about
100 whizzing through the air. But that’s nothing – just a trifle of the real
fireworks in this part of the battle.
I surely miss
lots of things over here, though I look forward to the Standard and those
letters which I know are on the way, and which I haven’t gotten yet, because I
have been paddling ever since I have been over here. I guess nothing will ever
catch me from the rear until I am back in the States, as the Yanks never
retreat.
I have parted
from every Minnesota pal I have had, am with strangers, but they are Yanks from
our sister states.
As I managed to
get in one of the Divisions that has been over here the longest, we are all in
hopes of having one of the first chances to take the big boat home, as it will
take some time to send us all back.
Wouldn’t mind
eating Xmas dinner at home, or at least have my feet under the table, as I know
everything is scarce and high prices, and only 2 lbs. of sugar must be just
like none or just a teaser. Something like a can of jam I got hold of a few
days ago. It wasn’t long before we had a hole in the hold, as we made sauce of
it – although it might have been plum pudding, who knows.
Then one
morning just before going over the top, some good friend who helped to hold the
lines the day before left me a fresh can of carp, which made my mouth water as
I was opening it with my bayonet, but just as I had my fork in it the command
came to go forward and I even left my fork. Just so I had my gas mask which is
supposed to be your best friend, then your rifle and ammunition. But I also
carried a blanket with all our other equipment, making a lot of extra weight,
but it sure came in handy even if we couldn’t sleep and it sure was a friend of
mine, and I made lots of friends with it just by letting loose of one end of
it. We were supposed to have overcoats like most of the men had, but it seems
ours couldn’t catch up with us but if we can’t keep warm we’ll make it mighty
warm in front of us.
I sure want to
thank the Red Cross, Y.M.C.A., K.C. and Salvation Army as they all have been a
great help; and thanks to their helpers.
The French
treat us mighty nice, They think we are American wonders, or millionaire
soldiers as they sure get what money we may happen to have as the Yank lets it
go easy.
Well I must
close wishing you all the best of health and prosperity and Merry Christmas and
a Happy New Year. I am sure it will be happier than the last one. I know it has
made me so already. I am, Your
Friend, Wilbert Lamers, Co. E. 23 Inf., A.E.F., France
P.S. Thought I
would slip this in: They say the Kaiser is the only one who ever bought a round
trip ticket to Paris. But he has used the last half first, so I am waiting from
him to use the first half before I visit Paris. Paris is about the only place
of importance over here that I haven’t been to. I have been in the south,
traveling back and forth east and west, as I worked north. W.L.
Letters
Written from France Before Peace Came Predict an Early Victory
Under date of
November 6, Edward C. Lammers, who is in France, wrote a letter to the Standard
in which he says, “peace is near.” Following is the letter:
“I had a
remittance of $1.50 sent you yesterday for subscription. This may be short of
paying for a year, but I’ll be back in time to make up the deficit.
There are four
of us Fairfax lads in this camp, so we let the paper go from one to another.
The news looks good even if it is a month old.
You ought to
see the papers here; only two pages, and most of that is advertising. They are
generally two days behind time, however they tell us the peace is near.
Charles Buehler December 7, 1888 – October 9, 1918
Another sad message reached this community last Sunday when Joseph Buehler received a telegram from the War department announcing the death of his son, Charles. The message stated that Charles had been killed in action in France, between the dates of September 26 and 30. He was engaged in the field artillery. This brave soldier, who gave his all for his country, was one of the first to be taken from civilian life. At the time he was employed with his brother Joseph at Detroit, Michigan. After a period of training in camp he went to France, arriving there March 6. The frequent letters which he wrote home were always of a cheerful nature, indicating that he had no fear for his own safety, and that he was willing and proud to be one of the participants in so worthy a struggle. Besides the father and mother who mourn the loss of a most worthy son, there are three brothers: Joseph, Detroit, Mich., and Albert and Frank, both of whom are at home.
Editor’s Note: Charles Buehler is buried in France. The Fairfax Legion post is named for him and two others, Clarence Buehler and William Bruggeman.
Calmer Carlson March 10, 1891 – October 9, 1918
Calmer Carlson dies from influenza pneumonia in France.
Mrs. Carlson of Bandon township, mother of Calmer Carlson received the sad news from the War Department Friday of last week of the death of her son. According to the telegram the death occurred October 9, caused by influenza pneumonia. He was 27 years, six months, 26 days of age at the time of death. Calmer left for Camp Wadsworth, Spartansburg, S.C., July 25, last and later was transferred to France, arriving there about September 6. His family believe that he was sick all the time after arriving in France as no word was heard from him after his arrival there. While at Camp Wadsworth he wrote frequently. He was preceded in death by his father and two sisters, namely Sina Mathilda, and Marie. He is survived by a sorrowing mother, five sisters and three brothers. The sisters are: Olga, at home; Mrs. Ludvig Dahlquist, Mrs. Axel Dahlquist, Mrs. Mathew Weikle, all of Bandon; Mrs. Meiner Mork, Palmyra. The brothers are Carl and Martin, both of whom are at home and Hakkon, of Minneapolis. Calmer was one of the estimable young men of the community, and because of his kindness, honesty of purpose and manliness he held the deep respect of a large number of friends.
Posted: February 21, 2019 by Renville County Historical Society Leave a Comment
John Kronlokken Killed in Action, Renville County Journal, 12-5-1918
February 8, 1889 – November 2, 1918
John Kronlokken, another Renville County young man, with the Expeditionary Forces in France has paid the Supreme Sacrifice. We are not informed as to just when he enlisted with what company he belonged or when he went over-seas, but a thrill of sadness and mourning passes thru the whole community at the sad news that he was killed in action in France Nov. 2nd. John Kronlokken was a brother of Oscar Kronlokken north east from this village and a son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kronlokken, who used to live on a farm about two miles south east of Renville. The end of the war came very shortly after Mr. Kronlokken’s death. In bringing about that most desirable of all goals, the successful termination of the World War, the making of the world safe for democracy, John Kronlokken offered up his life blood. May a grateful nation never forget the sacrifices and services so nobly and so unselfishly rendered by John Kronlokken and thousands of others who will not return with the returning victors nor partake of the honor and festivities awaiting them.
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Posted: February 21, 2019 by Renville County Historical Society Leave a Comment
Letter from Floyd Barber, Renville County Journal, 12-6-1918
November 24, 1893 – July 15, 1978
Floyd Barber, Formerly of Ericson Township, Describes Feeling of People “Over There” When War is Won
Somewhere in France, Nov. 13, ‘18
Dear Folks at Home;
Hurrah! The war is won. It is almost too good to be true. I thought I would write a few lines to let you know I am in the best of health. I was in La Mans night before last and yesterday. The people there are sure celebrating over the good news. There were 16 American bands in town today and Allied flags flying everywhere. I’ll bet this is a blessed thing to the boys at the front. It has been quiet there two days now. It must seem odd after nearly five years of hell! I guess the Germans were in worse shape that we thought for they are going to look to the Allies for food now. After they take all that war stuff away from them, they can’t fight if they wanted to, which I guess they have got enough of. Uncle Sam sure did big things since we declared war. Everywhere I go I see American soldiers.
I haven’t got any more mail. I am wondering what has become of it. That is one thing I don’t like about “over here”, we don’t get our mail regular. The chances look good now for my safe return in good health. It makes me feel sad, when I think of the brave boys that never will return, and those who have become crippled, and lost their health. The Government wants a lot of us to stay here and help build up France again. They have to sign up for eighteen months, and get $150 above what we get now, and our board and clothes. That would mean a lot of money, but I don’t believe I could stand to stay here that long. The most of the boys say there isn’t money enough to keep them here; but I suppose there is lots that will stay. I hope they get me back to the farm soon to help feed this hungry world. The farm labor must be awful scarce there now according to what it was when I left for camp. I hope Victor didn’t have to go, for he is sure needed on the farm. I know I could do more good there than here now. I hope it isn’t long before I see you all. I will send you some cards from La Mans. I was through that wonderful Cathedral again today, and had a better look at it. It sure is grand, some of the stained glass windows are the first ever brought to Europe. You can get a little idea of the number of stained glass windows from the picture. Well I must close for this time as ever your soldier boy.
Floyd O. Barber, 83 Div. Int. School, A. P. O. 762, A. E. F.
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Last Updated: February 21, 2019 by Renville County Historical Society Leave a Comment
Letter from Willard Lammers, Fairfax Standard, 5 Dec 1918
March 1, 1892 – February 8, 1948
France, October 22, 1918
Friend Editor and Folks at Home:
Just a note which I hope reaches you still with the warmth of a good old Minnesota town in the big U.S.A., which I once left for Uncle Sam who shall soon bring us back again if we’re fortunate enough to be able to fight it through a few more weeks, as the end is close at hand, and I’ll miss my guess if every road has not an end, no matter how long it is.
Well, I would like to take a chance going home in an aeroplane, otherwise I won’t be lonesome for them when I do get away from their noise as they sound like shells coming over, and you can imagine what a funny feeling it may be when there are about 100 whizzing through the air. But that’s nothing – just a trifle of the real fireworks in this part of the battle.
I surely miss lots of things over here, though I look forward to the Standard and those letters which I know are on the way, and which I haven’t gotten yet, because I have been paddling ever since I have been over here. I guess nothing will ever catch me from the rear until I am back in the States, as the Yanks never retreat.
I have parted from every Minnesota pal I have had, am with strangers, but they are Yanks from our sister states.
As I managed to get in one of the Divisions that has been over here the longest, we are all in hopes of having one of the first chances to take the big boat home, as it will take some time to send us all back.
Wouldn’t mind eating Xmas dinner at home, or at least have my feet under the table, as I know everything is scarce and high prices, and only 2 lbs. of sugar must be just like none or just a teaser. Something like a can of jam I got hold of a few days ago. It wasn’t long before we had a hole in the hold, as we made sauce of it – although it might have been plum pudding, who knows.
Then one morning just before going over the top, some good friend who helped to hold the lines the day before left me a fresh can of carp, which made my mouth water as I was opening it with my bayonet, but just as I had my fork in it the command came to go forward and I even left my fork. Just so I had my gas mask which is supposed to be your best friend, then your rifle and ammunition. But I also carried a blanket with all our other equipment, making a lot of extra weight, but it sure came in handy even if we couldn’t sleep and it sure was a friend of mine, and I made lots of friends with it just by letting loose of one end of it. We were supposed to have overcoats like most of the men had, but it seems ours couldn’t catch up with us but if we can’t keep warm we’ll make it mighty warm in front of us.
I sure want to thank the Red Cross, Y.M.C.A., K.C. and Salvation Army as they all have been a great help; and thanks to their helpers.
The French treat us mighty nice, They think we are American wonders, or millionaire soldiers as they sure get what money we may happen to have as the Yank lets it go easy.
Well I must close wishing you all the best of health and prosperity and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I am sure it will be happier than the last one. I know it has made me so already. I am, Your Friend, Wilbert Lamers, Co. E. 23 Inf., A.E.F., France
P.S. Thought I would slip this in: They say the Kaiser is the only one who ever bought a round trip ticket to Paris. But he has used the last half first, so I am waiting from him to use the first half before I visit Paris. Paris is about the only place of importance over here that I haven’t been to. I have been in the south, traveling back and forth east and west, as I worked north. W.L.
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Posted: February 21, 2019 by Renville County Historical Society Leave a Comment
Letter from Ed Lammers, Fairfax Standard, 12-5-1918
Letters Written from France Before Peace Came Predict an Early Victory
Under date of November 6, Edward C. Lammers, who is in France, wrote a letter to the Standard in which he says, “peace is near.” Following is the letter:
“I had a remittance of $1.50 sent you yesterday for subscription. This may be short of paying for a year, but I’ll be back in time to make up the deficit.
There are four of us Fairfax lads in this camp, so we let the paper go from one to another. The news looks good even if it is a month old.
You ought to see the papers here; only two pages, and most of that is advertising. They are generally two days behind time, however they tell us the peace is near.
Wishing for a sudden finish.
I am, Very truly yours, Ed. C. Lammers”
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Last Updated: February 21, 2019 by Renville County Historical Society Leave a Comment
Charles Buehler and Calmer Carlson Give Their All in Service of Country, Fairfax Standard, 12-5-1918
December 7, 1888 – October 9, 1918
Another sad message reached this community last Sunday when Joseph Buehler received a telegram from the War department announcing the death of his son, Charles.
The message stated that Charles had been killed in action in France, between the dates of September 26 and 30. He was engaged in the field artillery.
This brave soldier, who gave his all for his country, was one of the first to be taken from civilian life. At the time he was employed with his brother Joseph at Detroit, Michigan. After a period of training in camp he went to France, arriving there March 6. The frequent letters which he wrote home were always of a cheerful nature, indicating that he had no fear for his own safety, and that he was willing and proud to be one of the participants in so worthy a struggle.
Besides the father and mother who mourn the loss of a most worthy son, there are three brothers: Joseph, Detroit, Mich., and Albert and Frank, both of whom are at home.
Editor’s Note: Charles Buehler is buried in France. The Fairfax Legion post is named for him and two others, Clarence Buehler and William Bruggeman.
March 10, 1891 – October 9, 1918
Calmer Carlson dies from influenza pneumonia in France.
Mrs. Carlson of Bandon township, mother of Calmer Carlson received the sad news from the War Department Friday of last week of the death of her son.
According to the telegram the death occurred October 9, caused by influenza pneumonia. He was 27 years, six months, 26 days of age at the time of death.
Calmer left for Camp Wadsworth, Spartansburg, S.C., July 25, last and later was transferred to France, arriving there about September 6. His family believe that he was sick all the time after arriving in France as no word was heard from him after his arrival there. While at Camp Wadsworth he wrote frequently.
He was preceded in death by his father and two sisters, namely Sina Mathilda, and Marie. He is survived by a sorrowing mother, five sisters and three brothers. The sisters are: Olga, at home; Mrs. Ludvig Dahlquist, Mrs. Axel Dahlquist, Mrs. Mathew Weikle, all of Bandon; Mrs. Meiner Mork, Palmyra. The brothers are Carl and Martin, both of whom are at home and Hakkon, of Minneapolis. Calmer was one of the estimable young men of the community, and because of his kindness, honesty of purpose and manliness he held the deep respect of a large number of friends.
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