Elroy Herbert Boysen

Today, the 36th Infantry Division still serves the state and the nation. Many Texas soldiers are currently activated and deployed with the 36th ID in Iraq and Afghanistan. In World War II, soldiers from The Fighting 36th, served with distinction in Europe. Last Thursday, we lost one of those soldiers:

Elroy Herbert Boysen
April 7, 1920 - February 3, 2011
Elroy Herbert Boysen received the gift of life on April 7, 1920 in Shiner, TX.
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On November 25, 1940, Elroy age 20 left his home in Gonzales, TX and activated at Camp Bowie, Brownwood, TX with the Texas National Guard 36th Infantry Division. The Fighting 36th, who's record is outstanding in the annals of America's military history, were the first to invade Hitler's Europe at Salerno, Italy on September 9, 1943. Elroy fought the following; Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, Anzio, Southern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe Campaigns and made amphibious assault
landings at Salerno and Southern France. The 36th suffered over 27,000 casualties, the third highest of any World War II division. Elroy received the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, American Defense Service Medal, Distinguished Unit Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and Combat Infantryman's Badge. Elroy served his country as First Sergeant and returned home from the front line for a 30 day furlough. While on leave Elroy married Anna Marie nee Tieken in the Lutheran Church in Gonzales, TX on December 8, 1944. After leave he returned to his unit in France. In 1945 Elroy was discharged after the end of World War II and he and Ann made their home in Houston, TX. Elroy is a Life Member of the Houston Chapter and National Chapter of the 36th Division. Elroy is also recognized in the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, New Windsor, NY, www.thepurpleheart.com.

If you feel moved to do so, go read all of First Sergeant Elroy Herbert Boysen's obituary and leave a note of condolence for his family and friends.