Layton, Arthur died 1918

LAYTON, ERNST

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 11/27/2021 at 22:45:14

Elkader Register & Argus, Thur., 03 Oct. 1918.

Former Elkader Boy Gives Life In France.

Buried with Military Honors in American Cemetery Near Angers.

Arthur Layton, a former Elkader boy, lies in the American cemetery at Angers, France, a sacrifice in defense of Justice and Liberty against the Hun.

His life with those of other Americans and our Allies is a part of the price to be paid to rid the world of that menace to humanity, irreversible monarchial governments, with their, train of evils.

The sacrifice is great. The blood bought liberty of the world is costly. May it be valued accordingly. The end is apparently in sight but the payment must not cease until it has brought an ending peace, or the price will be too great. There must be no possibility of the monster ever again menacing our liberties, - the Hun must never again threaten the world with his "Kultur."

Arthur Layton did his duty as an American, gave his full measure of devotion to his country, paid the price of his blood that liberty and right should overcome tyranny and brutality. Let us too do our part, whatever it may be, to preserve these precious possessions for humanity, for our country.

Let no foe from without or within menace the things for which he gave his all.

The letter written by Arthur Layton was dated Aug. 2nd, before he was wounded. A letter from the hospital dated Aug. 22nd tells of his death, but no particulars as to how or where he was wounded have been received. The letter follows:

O.A.S., with the American Ex. F., France, Aug. 2, 1918.

Dear Mother and all:

Wrote you a letter a few days ago, but thought I would write another today, as I haven't anything to do. It has rained off and on all day. How are all the folks? If you are as well as I am, you sure are healthy enough. I would like Leigh Mathews address. I havn't had a letter since I've been over here.

Now you won't hear from me often, as lots of times I won't be where I can write. Do Mathews hear from Leigh often? I got a diary tonight at the Y.M.C.A. and will start keeping a record of towns, battles, etc., that I am in. In case I am bumped off, I will tell you now what I want done with the things I have. Two Liberty Bonds, pay, etc., and the money of grandfather's, I want Harry to have when he is old enough. I suppose you think I take rather a morbid view of things. Not at all. I have had several close shaves, and will have more. A sniper just missed my vital parts by a few inches. I dropped just as fast as the bullet. This was a few days ago, and I laid there a long time before I moved again. Believe me I left that place, as of course I couldn't see him. At other times shells have lit much too close to suit me. I am telling this so you will know how things are. Don't worry about me as there is no use. I never think anything about it except of course when under shell fire.

I like this regiment fine. We are to get some kind of a standard or colors, or something like that, from the French government, for the regiment. That is the rumor, don't know if it is true or not.

I would like you to send me a box of tooth paste, as it's hard to get.

How is grandmother? Give her my love and tell her to get well soon. Are dad and the boys well? Write me, and give me all the news. It seems a long time since I heard from you folks. Tell Harry to be a good boy.

With love to all, Art.

__________

Co. G., 30 Inf., AEF, France.
On active service with the American Ex. Force, Angers, Base Hospital. Aug 22nd.

My dear Mr. Layton:

Before this, word has reached you of the Home Going of your loyal and brave son, who gave his young life for the cause of justice and liberty.

While here in our hospital, your son showed the bravest and noblest spirit throughout his suffering. There was no complaint, no regret. He died knowing that he had done his highest duty and he was proud to die as an American soldier.

We buried him in our America cemetery with Military Honors. His grave is carefully marked and will have good attention. Often flowers will be placed on his grave. I feel deeply for you in your sorrow and pray that the rich consolations and comforts of Jesus may be known unto you. With my respect and honor,

Cordially yours,
HENRY WILDS Smith

Corp. Arthur Layton, Co. G. 30 Inf.
A.E.F., France.

(Note: See the obit of John D. Layton, 1867 - 1926, for relationships.)