MYERS, PETER J.

Peter James Myers, 21, pharmacist mate first class, USNR, serving with the Marines, was killed in action [May 20, 1945] in the Pacific, according to a telegram received by his mother, Mrs. Dixie Elizabeth Myers of Route 2, Green Ridge, Wednesday night. “Pete” as he was known, was with the Marines in action on Okinawa.

The message to his mother reads:

“Mrs. Dixie Elizabeth Myers, Route 2, Green Ridge: I deeply regret to inform you that your son, Peter James Myers, pharmacist mate first class, USNR has been killed in action in the service of his country. Sincerest sympathy is extended to you in your great loss. When further details as to whether body recovered and interred are received you will be informed. To prevent possible aid to our enemies please do not divulge the name of his ship or stations, unless the general circumstances are made public in news service.

“Vice Admiral Randall Jacobs, Chief of Naval Personnel”

Born in Morgan County, Peter James Myers came to Pettis County with his parents, the late Alfred Myers and Mrs. Myers, in 1930, residing at the farm home seven miles southwest of Sedalia. He would have been 22 years old the 18th of June. He attended Sacred Heart Grade School and Smith-Cotton High School, being graduated May 22, 1941. He had received several honors in track and was a member of the “S” club. On February 5, 1942, he entered the service, joining the Navy, and was transferred for duty with the Marines. He had been overseas two years.

Mrs. Myers has two other sons in the service. They are Warren Myers, with the infantry in France and Jewel Myers, wounded in action in Germany March 3, who returned a few days ago to the States to be sent to a U.S. veterans hospital. His mother has not learned where he will be sent.

Surviving besides his mother and his two brothers mentioned above, are the following sisters and brothers, Carl, Ruth, Ida, Byron, Kenneth, Billy and Gene Myers, all of the home.