Robert Grant Merchant was born on 3 October 1921, in Marion, Ohio. His parents are Samuel M. & Alida (Delauder) Merchant, both of Marion. Roberts father served in World War One, in the 59th Division, Combat Engineers. Robert’s brother, Ehuler E. Merchant, was serving with the Merchant Marines, during World War Two. Robert G. Merchant attended Harding High School, Class of 1927. He married Betty (Friley). Together they had two children; Nelson W. Merchant and Evelyn J. Merchant. Robert had worked for the Western Union Telegraph Company and Marion Metal Products Company prior to entering service.

Robert G. Merchant entered service on 27 August 1942, in the United States Army. He was sent overseas in January of 1943. He saw service at the Invasion of Italy while assigned to the 7th Army. After the Battle of Salerno he was transferred to the 5th Army. He served as a Private First Class (Pfc.) with the 39th Combat Engineers. Pfc. Robert G. Merchant was killed in action on 23 May 1944, in Italy. Pfc. Robert G. Merchant is buried in the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery and Memorial, Nettuno, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Lazio, Italy.

Robert G. Merchant is remembered on the Honor Roll, at the Veterans Memorial Park, in Marion, Ohio; on the west wall of the Marion County Courthouse; and on the World War II Veterans Memorial Wall, at the Marion Cemetery.