Tolsma, Jacob (Died 1918)

TOLSMA

Posted By: Linda Ziemann, volunteer (email)
Date: 7/19/2008 at 14:19:55

LeMars Sentinel
Tuesday, March 4, 1919

KILLED IN FRANCE
JACOB TOLSMA WAS SHOT THROUGH THE HEART
NEWS OF DEATH LONG DELAYED

Young Man Was Reported Missing in August 1918 But Inquiries Failed to Obtain Any
Information Until Recently Through Red Cross Agency

John Tolsma received notice from the government last fall that his son,
Jacob Tolsma, who was in Company G., 128th infantry, had been reported
missing on August 3d. Failing to receive any further information through
government channels, he took the matter up with Red Cross and that
organization has been endeavoring to learn more concerning the fate of the
young man. A few weeks ago the Red Cross wrote Mr. Tolsma they had an
unconfirmed report that his son had been killed at Chateau Thierry and this
week he received another letter from the Red Cross dated February 21st which
says:

“Jesse R. Henry, Yale, Michigan, of Company G. says: I was near him when he
was hit and killed instantly at Chateau Thierry near the last river crossed.
He was advancing at the time. Tolsma had been in the company two months, I
was in the same platoon.

Sergeant Clyde Hilgison, Company G. says: Tolsma was shot through the heart
at Chateau Thierry. Informant was not eye witness but had it from an eye
witness.

It must be a comfort to you to know that your son was killed instantly and
did not suffer. The Red Cross wishes you to feel you have our profound
sympathy for your loss, but knows that you must feel a pride that no sorrow
can efface to have had a son who died bravely for his country.”

Those who knew Jake Tolsma will not be surprised to know he died like a man
fighting for right. Jake was one of those manly, straightforward, courageous
boys, who always did well whatever he did and shirked no responsibility.
Though cut off in his youth, he has probably done more for the world than
some who shirked and will live to a ripe old age. The community sympathizes
with Mr. Tolsma and appreciates the great sacrifice he has made in giving to
his country the boy who was his pride and companion.