Month: November 1944

First Tank Battalion, First Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, c/o Fleet Office, San Francisco, California.

21 November, 1944.

Mr Jack A. McLoskey

609 Second Avenue, Mannouth, Illinois

Dear Mr. McLoskey:

As the Chaplain of your son’s battalion, I wish to extend my personal sympathy to you in your great sorrow. I realize what this loss must mean to you and my prayers go out to you in your grief. Words seem so inadequate but at such a time the Heavenly Father is gracious to comfort and console. May He sustain you through these days and may His abiding spirit assure you that your son has been raised in honor and shall dwell in His Presence forevermore.

You will be happy to know that every spiritual preparation possible, both Catholic and Protestant was made for our officers and men before the campaign. Holy Communion, Devine Services and counsel were administered each one. Those who made the supreme sacrifice died in the Lord. Rest assured that the life you offered upon the alter of our country was not given in vain. He shall ever be remembered by his comrades for his fine spirit and heroic courage. Knowing him and seeing him face action as I did, I am sure his one wish would be that you now go forward with the same courage and faith in God and country.

Captain McLoskey was given a dignified Christian burial according to the rites of his Faith, and with full military honors, in the presence of his officers and friends. He is buried in the United States Government cemetery over which fly the colors of our beloved country. This sacred spot is receiving the attention and care due these honored men, every attempt being made to permanently beautify their last resting pace in the most fitting manner.

With true interest and sympathy, and soliciting your prayers of those who fight on, I remain –

Sincerely yours

BRYON E. ALLENDER

Chaplain, U. S. Navy Reserve.

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First Tank Battalion, First Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, c/o Fleet Office, San Francisco, California.

21 November, 1944.

Mr Jack A. McLoskey

609 Second Avenue Mannouth, Illinois

Dear Mr. McLoskey:

You have been informed of the death of your son, Captain Leo J. McLoskey, U. S. Marine Corps Reserve, who was killed in action against Japanese forces at Peleliu Island on September 16, 1944. At the time of his death Captain McLoskey was a company commander serving under my command. In behalf of myself, and the officers and men of the First Tank Battalion, I wish to convey our deepest sympathy in what we feel to be our mutual loss.

Captain McLoskey was a Marine in every sense of the word, admired and respected by everyone who knew him for his courage, devotion to duty, and his unfailing courtesy. He died leading his men, giving his life in the service of the Corps which he loved, to help preserve the ideals and principles of our country. Each officer and man of this battalion feels that he has lost a true friend and comrade, and one who can never be replaced. It is realized that words are inadequate and will not compensate for the loss of a loved one who is dear to us but it is sincerely hoped that the knowledge that your sorrow is shared will alleviate your suffering.

Inasmuch as it is my earnest desire to assist you in every way possible, I will consider it a privilege to be of service to you, so please feel free to write to me at any time. It is deeply regretted that censorship regulations at this time forbid a more detailed and personal account of your son’s service while under my command.

Yours most sincerely,

A. J. Stuart

Lieutenant Colonel, U. S. Marine Corps

Commanding.

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