Thomas Edward Cunningham was born 8 April 1913, in Danbury, to James and Elizabeth (Maguire) Cunningham. He attended St. Joseph Catholic School. He enjoyed farming, fishing, gardening, and playing cards. His siblings are: Joe, Marcella, Catherine, Gilda, Maurice, Anna and Frank.
“At the start of World War II, I was not taken at the beginning because of my age, but once war was declared they were taking just about everyone. I was living in Anthon and was working for the Illinois Central Railroad. I served in the Army, but don’t recall, if or why I chose that branch.
“First started out at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Was sent to the Philippine Islands and was specialized in the Military Police and qualified as a Rifle Marksman on 9 July 1942.
“I was called home due to an accident that my mother and sisters were involved in. When I went back to the service, I was placed in a different battalion and was sent to Australia.
“I was discharged from the service on 8 January 1946. I went home at that time. I returned to work for the railroad as a trackman.
“I kept in contact with quite a few of the men from the service. Although they were all over the United States, we kept in contact as least once a year through Christmas cards. I continued writing to them as long as they were alive.
“I did attend a few reunions with the 439th division which was the group I was with after I went back into the service.”
Tom married Veronica Anna Schiernbeck, 10 June 1953, in Anthon. Four children were born to this union: Virginia, Tim, Donna, and Pat. They have four grandchildren.
Tom worked for the Illinois Central Railroad for 37 years. After retirement he was the Police Chief for the Town of Anthon for 16 years.
Tom passed away 10 January 2001, at home. He was buried at Mount St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, with military rites conducted by American Legion McNiff Post 89 of Anthon, in Anthon.
The Cunningham Brothers, Joe, Frank, Maurice and Tom.
Submitted by Veronica Cunningham.
