Fourth Armored Division

PFC Francis E. Ault of the 5th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron Killed in Action, 1945

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Francis Eugene Ault was born on 25 May 1917, in Claridon Township, Marion County, Ohio. His parents are Harley E. Ault & Dora B. (Groves) of near Caledonia. Francis E. Ault graduated high school in 1935, from Claridon High School. Francis was employed with North Electric Manufacturing Company in Galion, Ohio.

Francis E. Ault entered service in February 1942. His stations include Fort Hayes, Columbus, Ohio; Pine Camp, New York; and Camps in Texas and California. He was sent overseas on 29 December 1943. He attained the rank of Private First Class (PFC). While overseas he saw service in England, France, Belgium and Luxembourg prior to entering Germany. PFC Ault received commendations for actions in France and Bastogne.

PFC Francis E. Ault was killed in action while serving in a mechanized unit in the 5th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, 4th Armored Division “Breakthrough.” His death occurred on 1 March 1945.
PFC Francis E. Ault is buried in the New Caledonia Cemetery, Caledonia, Marion County, Ohio.

Francis E. Ault 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 Two Memorial Wall, at the Marion Cemetery.

Pvt. Richard A. Griffith – World War Two Casualty

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Richard Alvin Griffith was born on 10 October 1916, in Marion, Ohio. His parents are Edwin H. & Faye Griffith. Richard A. Griffith attended Harding High School. Prior to entering service he was employed at the Hotel Harding as an Elevator Operator and Bell Hop.

Richard A. Griffith would enter service with the United States Army. He was inducted at Fort Hayes, Columbus, Ohio, on 10 January 1942. Pvt. Griffith served with the 10th Armored Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division “Name Enough,” under Patton’s Third Army. Pvt. Richard A. Griffith died in France, on 23 November 1944.
Pvt. Richard A. Griffith is buried in the Radnor Cemetery, Radnor, Delaware County, Ohio.
Richard A. Griffith 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.