William Joseph Brown

Civilian:
William was born on October 28, 1892 at Wells Township, Rice County, Minnesota. His father, M.H., and his mother were both born in the USA.  At the time of his enlistment his residence was that of his parents at Wells Township, Rice County, Minnesota which had a Lonsdale Post Office address.  At this time he was employed as a steamfitter by the Bloom Senik(sp?) Company. After discharge he resided with his wife at 665 Virginia Avenue, St. Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota. 

Military Service Record:
William enlisted on May 5, 1918 while traveling at Great Falls, Montana, as a Steamfitter 1st Class in the Naval Reserve and was assigned a serial number of 113-70-22.  His declared address of residence at that time was Lonsdale, Minnesota.  From July 22 to September 2, 1918 he was aboard the USS West Hombomac at Bremerton (Puget Sound), Washington.  On June 12, 1919 William was honorably discharged as a Steamfitter 1st Class. and was reported as 0% disabled at that time.  He was not engaged in any action.   His Rice County Military Service Record file contains a letter from the Auditor of Rice County dated January 3, 1921 affirming his Minnesota address at the time of enlistment so that he was "entitled to share in the Minnesota State Soldier's Bonus."