Julian Smith Patton obituary, undocumented scrapbook clipping.

"Killed in Battle Four Days Before Close of War

Julian Smith Patton, son of Sam Patton, Henderson, Texas, was killed in action in France Nov. 7, just four days before the armistice became effective. He was a member of Company L, 359th Infantry, Ninetieth Division. He was 27 years old.

The following is a letter written just after the battle at Chateau-Thierry in which Julian went through safely:

Somewhere in France.

My Dear Father:---I will write you a few lines to let you know that I am o. k.

I guess you have read in the papers before this time as to what your American boys are doing in France, and Dad, you can tell them all that I am happy that I made it through all right and without much trouble, and if I do say it myself, there was not a coward in the bunch. All stuck together and came out all right. Will say that would [gain] a million for the experience, and not g[ive] a penny to go through it again.

I thought of lots of things that happened while making the drive and am glad the great ruler of the universe brought me safely through and I am to spend a few more days here.

Don't worry about us for we giving the Boch what Sherman said, h--l.

Papa, the old saying of going over the top is quite different from what I expected and I will have better judgement as how to handle myself next time. If you get a chance to see the moving picture "Over the Top"do not fail to do so, then you [will] know just what your boy is doing for humanity's sake out in "No Man's Land." No, I [can] not say "No Man's Land" [be]cause we have taken it [into] American territory, and can well call it that now.

The Red Cross and Y. M. C. A. are mighty good to us in every respect, so do not fail to help them, especially the Red Cross, every opportunity you have.

I made an allotment home. You can buy Stamps with it for me and place them in the F. & M. Bank with my other War Savings Stamps I have there.

Dad, you do not know just how proud your son will be when he hears the roll called and all have answered present, the band playing "The Star Spangled Banner," and with our discharges in our hands, step out into civilian life again and a God speed go with you, and especially to my dear old daddy.

Keep my dues paid in the K. of P. It is not necessary but it is only a small object and will help all soldiers over here.

Well, I will close with love and a kiss to the dearest daddy in this old world, and God's blessings be with you and I.

Your son, Julian S. Patton Co. L, 359th Infantry"