David O. Quam (ca. 1917-1944)

QUAM, MARONEY, MCLEOD, ROBINSON, HILL, DAVIS

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 12/29/2012 at 15:47:06

From Nevada Evening Journal July 7, 1944

David Quam Killed in Action On Italian Front

Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Quam of Roland were notified last night that their son, David, who had earlier been reported missing in action is now definitely reported killed in action. He was killed on the Italian front on the 31st of May. Quam had been in the army for three years, and had been overseas for the past two years. He participated in the North African, Sicilian and Italian campaigns.

He is survived by his parents, five sisters, Mrs. James Maroney of Nevada, Mrs. Dan McLeod of Hayward, Mrs. Les Robinson of Marshalltown, Mrs. Leonard Hill of Richland, California and Mrs. Bob Davis of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and four brothers, Vern of Burlington, Reuben of Lawlor, Walter, with the armed forces in England, and Bill and Camp Shelby, Mississippi.

[Services were in Roland at Sa]lem Church, when memorial services were held for the late Pfc. David Quam, who was killed by fragments from a mortar shell near the front lines on May 31st. The services were in charge of the Rev. Olaf Holen, set to music by Mrs. O. S. Boyd, L. A. Swenson and Cyrus Thompson. Among those from out of town were Mr. and Mrs. Loyd Nelson and Mr. and Mrs. Sterling Quam of Des Moines, Mr. and Mrs. James Maroney and son, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Olson, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Twedt, Mrs. James Harold Huff, H. Davison and Jane Erickson of Nevada, Mr. and Mrs. Verne Quam of Burlington, Mrs. Dena Christian of Story City and Mrs. LuVerne Quam of McCallsburg.

From Nevada Evening Journal July 24, 1944

Official Letter Confirming Death of David Quam

Roland, July 24--Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Quam of Roland received a letter last week from the commanding officer of the regiment of which their son, David Quam, was a member when he was killed in action in Italy, Mar 31, confirming the news of his death received fro the war department recently. David was a brother of Mrs. Laura Maroney of Nevada. The letter follows:

June 16, 1944

Dear Mr. Quam:

As battalion commander of your son's unit I wish to express, in behalf of the men and officers of this command, our deep and sincere sympathy in your great loss. We share with you, your sorrow. Like so many American parents you have given your son to the cause of freedom. David was an outstanding soldier, a good citizen, and a true friend to all who knew him. For the country he loved and the great ideals we represent, he gave the "last full measure of devotion."

David was killed by fragments from a mortar shell up near the front lines. The end came swift but mercifully. He was buried by one of chaplains in an American cemetery "Somewhere in Italy"--with full military honors. He sleeps beside the brave comrades who fell with him in the battle--all loved country and home but placed their duty first.

A memorial service was held for all the valiant Americans who laid down their lives in the battle. High tribute was paid, the salute was fired and taps were sounded for all the men like David who laid down their lives for the country they loved.

David's personal effects will be sent to you through military channels. This may require a little time, but be assure you will receive them. If I can be of any further aid to you do not hesitate to let me know.

Sincerely,
Bruno C. March, Lt. Col. Infantry, Commmanding