Burns, Robert J. 1917-1943

BURNS

Posted By: Linda Ziemann, Volunteer (email)
Date: 11/28/2012 at 12:31:56

LeMars Semi-Weekly Sentinel
December 10, 1943

BOB BURNS DIES FROM WOUNDS IN ARMY HOSPITAL
Was Wounded In Italian Fighting On November 4

Mr. and Mrs. James Burns of LeMars were notified Thursday of the death of their son, First Sergeant Robert J. Burns, who had previously been reported seriously injured in action in Italy. The message from the adjutant general’s office in Washington said:

“The Secretary of War desires that I tender his deep sympathy to you in the loss of your son, First Sergeant Robert J. Burns. Report received states that he died on November 6, in the north African area as results of wounds received in action. Letter follows.”

Bob was a member of Co. K., Iowa National Guard, when that unite was inducted into service in February 1941, and trained with the 34th Division at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana. He went with them to Camp Dix, New Jersey, thence overseas to Ireland, England and finally to North Africa where he participated in the heavy fighting in which a number of Co. K. boys were killed or wounded. On September 21 they moved into Italy to reinforce General Clark’s Army and November 26 Mr. and Mrs. Burns were notified that he had been seriously wounded in action November 4. This latest message indicates he died two days later. Bob has served with Co. K. throughout almost three years in the Army and was made First Sergeant of the company after Sergeant Robert Vanderwal was killed in the African fighting. He was a good soldier and was popular in the company as he had been when clerking in the Schneider-Bowers store.

Robert J. Burns was born July 28, 1917, in Oyens, and attended LeMars high school, graduating in 1936. He was active in both basketball and football and well liked by his fellow students.

He is survived by his parents and two sisters, Mrs. F. L. Sharp of Carroll, and Mrs. C. L. Peterson, East Lansing, Michigan. He was a member of St. James church.