An Airman's Story: Lieutenant Quentin Roosevelt
Lieutenant Quentin Roosevelt, An Airman's Story
Lieutenant Quentin Roosevelt was born on November 19, 1897, in Washington, D.C., the youngest son of President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt. Raised in the White House, Quentin was bright, mischievous, and full of life, a boy who found adventure in every corner of his world.
He earned a reputation as an “incorrigible bad boy,” delighting in snowball battles with Secret Service agents, launching spitballs at portraits, and carving out a makeshift baseball field on the White House lawn. Beneath his playful nature, however, was a quick intellect and a gifted mechanical mind.
Accepted to Harvard University in 1915, Quentin’s studies were cut short when the United States entered World War I. Believing his technical skills and fluency in French could serve his country, he joined the 1st Reserve Aero Squadron and later transferred to the 95th Aero Squadron.
In France, Lieutenant Roosevelt distinguished himself for both skill and spirit. When his men lacked proper boots, he challenged a superior officer to secure them, standing his ground even in the face of a court-martial threat. His determination, humility, and refusal to rely on his family name earned him deep respect from his fellow airmen.
On July 14, 1918, at the outset of the Second Battle of the Marne, Lieutenant Quentin Roosevelt was shot down behind enemy lines. He was only twenty years old.
His death struck the nation deeply, a young life, emblematic of courage and sacrifice, lost in service. He was laid to rest in France, where he remains at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, near the very shores where another generation of heroes would one day fight for freedom.
In 1919, Harvard University awarded him a posthumous A.B. War Degree, Class of 1919. His brother, Kermit Roosevelt, later compiled and published his wartime letters in Quentin Roosevelt: A Sketch with Letters, ensuring his voice and valor would never be forgotten.
Lieutenant Quentin Roosevelt’s story is one of youthful brilliance, courage, and unwavering devotion, a reminder that service and sacrifice can come from even the brightest and most mischievous of souls.
****** *********************************
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller living in Salem, Virginia.
In addition to her travel writings at www.takethebackroads.com, you can also read her book reviews at www.riteoffancy.com and US military biographies at www.everydaypatriot.com
Her online photography gallery can be found at shop.takethebackroads.com
#TaketheBackRoads
Like my page? Please consider supporting my work by visiting my sponsors and webshop or buying me a cup of coffee!
