Letter from the "C.O."

The letter was received by Mr. Fred Lewton relative to the death of his son, Harold, who was a member of this orginization.

DEAR MR. LEWTON:

It is with deep regret that I write of the death of your son, Corporal Harold L. Lewton, 36162012, a member of my command who was killed in action 3 January 1945.

Your son was a member of the 505th Parachute Infantry, 82d "All American" Airbourne Division.

Corporal Lewton was an excellent noncommissioned officer, a natural leader who never showed fear in combat. His devotion to duty inspired those with whom he served to give their best to accomplish the required tasks. Your son was killed in Belgium by enemy small arms fire immediately after he had succeeded in wiping out an enemy bazooka team. His action was responsible for preventing the destruction of an American tank and members of its crew.

Your son was buried in Belgium, and I can assure you that this was accomplished in a most befitting manner by his comrades with a Army Chaplain officiating. For further information concerning burial or disposition of personal effects an inquiry should be addressed to The Quartermaster General, Army Service Forces, Washington, D.C.

Putting aside family ties, the admiration, respect, and affection of comrades are a soldier's most priceless possessions, because collectively these comrades are unfailing judges. These possessions I believe your son had earned in full measure. Death of such a man leaves each member of the Division a lasting sense of loss, from which there comes to you a deep sense of personal sympathy.