On Tuesday of this week, May 29, 1917, word was received that Vergil Anderson, who
enlisted in the army a little over a month ago, had died of measles at El Paso, Texas.
Vergil, born August 6, 1899, is the son of Mr. W.A. Anderson of Strong City and was one of the most
admired young men of the county. He had no bad habits, and was a patriot. When
the call for volunteers came, Vergil was one of the first to present himself for enlistment
in the Navy, but on account of his age, even though he had the consent of his parents,
he was rejected by that department of the service. When he was denied the privilege of enlisting
in the Navy, he then enlisted in the regular Army. After spending a few days at Ft. Logan,
Colorado, he was transferred to El Paso for further training, where he contracted the measles
that caused his death.
We have not been informed whether his body will be shipped home for burial or not.
W.A. Anderson, his father, left for El Paso Tuesday morning but before he arrived at
that place, God had called home the spirit of his son.
The Star wishes to extend condolence to the bereaved and pay tribute to Vergil,
who is a hero and a martyr even though he
was not privileged to go to the battle front.
Cheyenne Star, May 31, 1917