IN LOVING MEMORY
John Patrick Ayres
Private First Class
·
United States Army
HOMETOWN
Henryetta,
OK
AGE
26
DATE OF DEATH
06/19/1945
PLACE OF BURIAL
Westlawn Cemetery in Henryetta, OK
About John Patrick Ayres
John served with the 305 INF 77 DIV, Company G. He was hit by an enemy sniper while attacking a heavily fortified enemy position. Medical aid was rushed to him but he died instantly. He was buried in the island Command Cemetery at Okinawa, R.I. and later moved to Soldier’s Field in Westlawn Cemetery in Henryetta, OK. He was awarded the Purple Heart.
Chaplain Lyman C. Barrett wrote this tribute in a letter to John’s wife. ‘You will be proud to learn that John was well loved and admired by the officers and men in his company and they join you in your sorrow for the loss of him. John was killed while doing his duty in a heroic manner. Our Savior said, ‘Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for a friend.’ John did that.
John and his wife Mabel were married on October 16, 1937 in Holdenville, OK. They were both 18 years old. They were the parents to 4 daughters: Patricia Mabel, Gloria Jean, Betty Jo and Carol Ann.
His courage and sacrifice will be a great inspiration for all of us.
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