Frank Irvin Clifton was born 10 February 1892, In Espyville, Marion County, Ohio. He was the son of Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Clifton of Espyville. Frank I. Clifton was drafted into service 29 April 1918. He received his training at Camp Sherman, Chillicothe, Ohio and was then sent to Fort Niagara. He was a member of C Company, 45th Battalion. Prior to going into service, he was employed as a section foreman with the Erie Railroad.
Private Clifton became ill while at Fort Niagara and soon died. Clifton died on 15 October 1918. His remains were returned to Marion, and he was buried at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Big Island, Marion County, Ohio.
Private Frank I. Clifton is remembered on the Honor Roll, at the Veterans Memorial Park in Marion, Ohio, and on the World War One Honor Roll, located on the second floor of the Marion County Courthouse.