LETTER TO MRS. DIRKS TELLS HOW SON DIED
In a letter written by Captain James Parent, commanding officer of Company G of the 21st Infantry, to Mrs. Lillian Dirks, is given the first definite news she has received in regard to the death of her son, Pvt. Alvin Dirks, 23, who died fighting on Mindanoa Island in the Philippines on May 13. Alvin grew to manhood in Allendorf community and for two years attended the Sibley High School. He entered the service in June 1944 and left for overseas last December. His brother, Donald Dirks is serving in the Navy.The letter from Captain Parent extended his deepest sympathy and reads in part:
During the course of our company's advance on the morning of May 13, 1945, an enemy strong point was encountered. Alvin was a member of a patrol which went to scout out the positions of the enemy. During the skirmish the enemy near Mintal, Mindanao, Philippine Islands, Alvin was instantly killed, without suffering by enemy fire. He was given a military funeral and buried in our Military Cemetery, which is beautifully kept my fellow soldiers, near Davo, Mindanao, Philippine Islands.
The excellent work and bravery by Alvin will never be forgotten by his officers and fellow enlisted men. To us who remain, Alvin will always be remembered as the traditional hard fighting American soldier.
