Robert L. LeidyVeteran

Cpl Robert Leidy killed in Philippines

Corporal Robert Leidy, armorer technician, serving with a rescue unit of the U. S. Air Force in the Pacific, was killed in action on Luzon, P. I., May 25, according to word received by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Leidy, Sr., Colonial Avenue, from the War Department.

He had been in service two years and eight months, and went overseas in March. He trained at Camp Lee, Va.; Buckley Field, Calif.; Kecater Field, Miss., and at Las Vegas, Nev.

He was aged 24 years and was a graduate of the Westminster High School, class of 1938. He was a member of St. Paul's Reformed Church and was secretary to the Sunday school. At the time of entering service he was employed at Keefer's Market and assisted J. E. Myers, Jr., funeral director. Besides his parents he is survived by the following brothers and sisters: Russell and Paul, Jr., Mrs. Winston Bullock, Mrs. Sheldon Hawkins, and Mrs. Robert Warner, of Westminster. Times 6/8/45

Memorial Service Held for Corporal Robert L. Leidy

On Sunday afternoon at 2.30 o'clock in St. Paul's Reformed Church, this city, Memorial Services were

held for Cpl. Robert L. Leidy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Leidy, Sr., 57 Colonial Avenue. Cpl. Leidy gave his

life for his country on Luzon May 25th. He was serving with the Army Air Force in the 6th Emergency Rescue

Squadron on the Florida Blanca Area of Luzon, Philippine Islands. In a communication to the family the

chaplain, Capt. George E. Mennen, wrote, ""On the 25th of May Robert's death occurred while participating in ground action against the enemy. The Japanese began firing and as he stepped outside of his tent, he was instantly killed. A military burial was held with 12 of his closest friends acting as pallbearers and an honor

guard. Memorial services were conducted the next day and practically all the members of the squadron attended.""

His parents will receive the Purple Heart award posthumously. A letter reads, ""You will receive the Purple

Heart award posthumously, awarded by direction of the President to your son. Cpl. Robert L. Leidy, Air Corps.""

The Rev. Edmund Lippy, pastor of the young man, conducted the service. Several selections were played on the

organ by the church organist. Paul Maynard. A number of floral designs were arranged at the altar. Following the scripture reading, the pastor spoke briefly on the life and character of the young man, which was spent, except for his army service, in his home, his church and his community. He said a firm faith was manifest in his strong character and personality and it was fitting to memorialize the life of one who was loved by all. With organ accompaniment, the pastor recited Emory Harbaugh's hymn, ""Jesus I Live To Thee."" He also gave a personal poem which was most appropriate. The repeating of the Lord's Prayer in unison and the benediction concluded the service.

Corporal Leidy entered the service of his country on October 15. 1942. He had served overseas since March.

He was a graduate of the Westminster High School 1938. Times 8/3/45