Private Berry Edwards, A Soldier's Story
.png "Private Berry Edwards, U.S. Army – World War I")
Private Berry Edwards, A Soldier's Story
In 1918, following the United States’ entry into World War I, Edwards enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was assigned to the 6th Pioneer Infantry, a unit responsible for construction, engineering, and logistical labor essential to supporting combat operations. Like many soldiers of the time, he trained at Camp Sherman in Chillicothe, Ohio, one of the Army’s major mobilization camps during the war.
Although his military service was brief, it coincided with a period of rapid expansion and intense preparation as American forces readied for overseas deployment. By the end of his service, Edwards returned to southwestern Virginia, relocating to Roanoke in December 1918 as soldiers across the country transitioned back into civilian life.
Private Berry Edwards died on May 17, 1934, from pneumonia, an illness that remained a serious and often fatal threat in the decades following the war. He is buried at Old Lick Cemetery in Roanoke, Virginia.
He is remembered as one of the many working-class Americans who answered the call during World War I, serving quietly and returning home to resume a life shaped by labor, service, and community.
_____________________________________________________________________________
About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.
You can also browse her online photography gallery at shop.takethebackroads.com.
✨ #TakeTheBackRoads
Enjoyed this post? Support the adventure by visiting my sponsors, shopping the gallery, or buying me a cup of coffee!
