Tribute to Elson M. James

The following citation [by] Lieutenant Robert Wythes, one of the officers of the Company in which Private James served, tells of the death and excellent record made by Private James in the A.E.F.:

March 14, 1919, Mrs. James, Tulalip Indian Agency.

Dear Mrs. James, Dr. Buchanan has written me concerning your son Elson and [it] becomes a pleasure for me to offer the following.

1st Class Private James [1.630.03 Elson M. “deceased”] who [in the] Bois de la Cote, Lemont, France, on the nights of Oct. 22, 23, & 24, 1918 did guide sentry squads to isolated post in No Man’s Land and on night of Oct 23, 1918 guided patrol to outskirts of Brieulles securing information of enemy occupation and showed exceptional skill courage and coolness under fire in guiding patrols to and from destination. The news of his death was a shock to us, and on behalf of the officers and men of Company F. deepest sympathies for the loss of a tried and true soldier.

“Signed” Robert W. Wythes

2nd Lieut. 30th Infantry Co F. A.P.O. 180. 740,

American E.F.