William Vernon Gordon (1912–1944) &

Rayola Smith (1913–2006)

William Vernon Gordon

Born: 10 Jul 1912 Lincoln, Bingham, Idaho

Died: 23 Feb 1944 WWII Bougainville,

North Solomons, Papua New Guinea

Burial: 12 Mar 1944 Draper, Salt Lake, Utah

Married: 3 May 1933 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah

Rayola Smith

Born: 15 Feb 1913 Draper, Salt Lake,, Utah

Died: 3 April 2006, Draper Cemetery, Draper, Utah

William Vernon Gordon: fourth son and 6th of 10 children of Samuel Arthur Gordon and Harriet

Louisa Meikle. He was Born July, 10, 1912 at Lincoln, Bonneville Co. Idaho

Vern, as known to his family and friends At the time of his birth, 10 Jul 1912, the family was living in

Taylor Creek, Bonneville, Idaho. Lincoln, Bingham, Idaho being the nearby town in which he was born.

PHOTO JAN 1912 A FEW MONTHS BEFORE VERN WAS BORN MAY 1912

At an early age he fell down a flight of stairs and broke his nose. As a result it was slightly

deformed and he had a degree of congestion in it. He loved his brothers and sisters, family

ties were very close. His family moved from one community to another a number of times.

His early life was spent in Lincoln, Idaho; Smithfield, Utah; Salt

Lake City, Utah; Other places in Idaho. Cornish, Utah, South

Jordan, Utah; Milford, Utah; Beaver, Utah. He attended High

School in Beaver, Utah. He enjoyed sports and he played

basketball in High School. he was interested in mechanics and

delighted in remodeling old cars. He always said he should have

one car to drive and one to fix.

On May 3, 1933 he married Rayola Smith in the Salt

Lake Temple. The first two years of our married life

was spent in South Draper, Utah. We lived in an old

house in which we had to replace windows. Fixing it

up was a challenge, but we were proud of the results.

It was while we lived here that our infant son was

born; 13 June 1934. He only lived twenty four hours.

He had a heart condition. This was a great

disappointment to us. But, even more so as years went

by. We were not permitted to have any babies.

However, we found a great deal of happiness in each

other, and our families, which were numerous on

both sides.

About 1933

Our next home was in Salt Lake City, Utah; about

one half block from Liberty Park. Vern was

employed at Arden Dairy.

About six months later we moved to Superior,

Wyoming. Vern was employed at the Union Pacific Coal Mines. We acquired many

friends and enjoyed the close companionship we had with Vern's brother Roy and his wife

Loe, and their three lovely girls. Together we enjoyed picnics, we often fixed our lunch

and rode out through the sagebrush until we found a shady spot to eat our lunch. We

enjoyed shopping together in Rock Springs, Wyo.

Then the annual celebration at Rock Springs was called "Old Timers Day".

Vern and Roy both participated in first aid

contest which were the main activity of the

day.

Vern & Roy, First Aid Team

In the winter, we enjoyed dancing parties,

evenings playing games and then getting

ready for Santa. We were active in church

functions, Roy was Bishop of the Superior

Ward. Vern was the Ward Clerk, he served

as a councelor in the YMMIA.

The two years we spent in Superior were

outstandingly happy years. Except for a sad event that entered our lives.

Vern's Father passed away. We really missed him, as he was so kind to us and was always

concerned over our welfare.

As our aim in life was to own our own

home and go into the chicken business.

We moved back to Draper. We found a

great deal of happiness in building a

home of our own. Even though it o nly

contained two rooms. Vern took a

great deal of pride in helping to make

our home beautiful with lawn and

flowers. We always had a good garden

and we planted a small fruit orchard

and berry patch. We built chicken

coups and filled them with chickens.

Vern’s' mother and his youngest brother Arvel visited us

often. It was nice living so close to our folks. We enjoyed

the companionship of Vern's brother James and his wife

Jane. They were very kind to us. We appreciated what

they did for us, as a family group we had many

wonderful times together.

In Dec. of 1942, Vern was drafted into the Army. He left

for Fort Douglas the day after Christmas. This all was

very difficult for us. He was first stationed at Camp

Roberts Calif. The following month I joined him. I lived

at Paso Robles and obtained employment there doing

housework. We spent happy week-ends together and

evenings at the camp.

During this time we received word of the death

of his Mother. This was another test to us.

Mother Gordon was very dear to us. She had

been confined to a wheel chair for many years.

In her affliction she exhibited a great deal of

courage and fortitude. She never complained

and did her best to encourage her family in

worthwhile undertakings.

We returned to California, and in August Vern was transferred

to Camp Lewis, Washington; where he received his over seas

training. I joined hem there and obtained employment at an

Army Hospital. The scenery is beautiful there. We lived in a

trailer house. Vern could only come home weekends, but we

felt it worth it for me to stay, to be together as long as we could.

One evening Vern called me from camp that he had received

his shipping orders. I drove out to camp to tell him good-bye.

This was not easy for either of us. After his departure, I

returned home to Draper and he was into the South Pacific. His

letters to me were of encouragement at all times. His thoughts

and dreams was to do his duty to his country and return home

to his loved ones, so that we could take up our lives where we

left off. He wrote concerning his family and friends. He was

interested in our home and appreciated information I gave him regarding it.

On February 23, 1944, Vern was killed while in active duty for his country on

Bougainville Island in the South Pacific. This was indeed a tragedy to those of us who

loved him. Memorial Services were held in his honor in Draper 2nd Ward. Many tributes

were rendered that day in his behalf. Vern's personality was one of generosity and

kindness. He never turned down a chance to be of service to anyone. He was cheerful and

he enjoyed life to the fullest. He lived well and died so we could go on enjoying the blessing

that comes with living in a free country. We owe him a debt of deep gratitude. As our

Savior said "I go to prepare a place for you, That where I am yea may be also."

Rayola Smith Gordon

WILLIAM VERNON GORDON

Service History U.S. Army, 37

th Infantry Division, 148

th Infantry Regiment

1942, Dec 19 - Inducted and sworn into the Army.

1942, Dec 26 - Leave Salt Lake city for Camp Roberts, California

1943, Jan 2 - Arrive at Camp Roberts, California for 13 weeks training.

1943, March 8 - Vern’s mother passes away

1943, March 19 - 7 Day furlough to attend Rayola’s Fathers funeral

1943, March 26 - Returned to Camp Roberts, Calif

1943, July 20 - Arrived at Fort Lewis, Washington for Advanced Training.

Assigned to: 37th Infantry Division, 148th Infantry Regiment

1943, Aug 19 - Moved to Pittsbury Depot, Calif. Near San Francisco

1943, Nov. 9 - 37th Landed on Bougainville

1944, Feb. 23 - Vern killed on Bougainville Island

1944, March 12 - Burial at Draper, Utah

Operation Cherryblossom - the invasion of Bougainville (November 1943-March 1944)

http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/operation_cherryblossom_bougainville.html

Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation, Co. F, 148th Infantry Regiment, for its heroism in Bougainville.

http://www.frankel-y.com/append.htm

Christmas Day on Bougainville (Author unknown)

The booming artillery is deafening-so is the roar of the planes.

Men are dying a thousand deaths-men are going insane.

The blood runs freely as the trickling of a brook.

The war goes on triumphantly and without a backward look.

To Kill; To Kill-the urge within one is strong.

"Peace on earth-Good will toward men"-where did I hear that song?

Oh! of course-how stupid-today is Christmas Day.

A day of hearty cheer-the world is deaf-it does not hear-it can not hear

http://www.nps.gov/history/history/online_books/npswapa/extcontent/usmc/pcn-190-003141-00/sec12.htm

Bougainville Finale

Then, in late February and early March 1944, patrols began making "almost continuous"

contact with the enemy. It appeared that the Japanese were concentrating for a serious

counterattack.

William Vernon Gordon

Died on Bougainville

February 23, 1944

37th Infantry Division, U.S. Army Divisions of World War II

Name: 37th, Type: Infantry, Nickname: Buckeyes, Source: National Guard

Theater: Pacific

WWII Casualties: 5,960, Days of Combat: 592, Activation Date: 16 Oct 40

Date Sent Overseas: 11 Jun 42 (Fiji) Date Entered Combat: 5 Jul 43 (New Georgia)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/37th_Infantry_Division_(United_States)

Combat chronicle

The 37th Infantry Division arrived in the Fiji Islands in June 1942 to fortify the islands against possible

invasion. The division continued its training on the islands. With the end of ground fighting on Guadalcanal, the

division moved to that island in April 1943, continued training, and staged for the Munda campaign. Two

battalions joined the Marine Raiders on New Georgia, 5 July 1943, while the remainder of the division landed,

22 July, and assisted the 43d Infantry Division in taking Munda airfield in heavy fighting. After mopping up on

New Georgia, the division returned to Guadalcanal, 9 September 1943, for rest and rehabilitation.

The division's next assignment was Bougainville as part of the I Marine Amphibious Corps. Landing between

8 and 19 November 1943, the 37th Division expanded the western beachhead sector, constructed roads and

bridges, and engaged in extensive patrol activity. On 15 December 1943, IMAC was relieved by the XIV Corps,

to which the 37th Division was then assigned. In March 1944, two Japanese divisions made eight major

attacks, but division lines held. In April patrols cleared the Laruma Valley area of major enemy units. The

division remained on Bougainville and trained for the Luzon campaign

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bougainville_Campaign

http://www.members.tripod.com/~Carter_Phillips/father3.html/

The 148th Infantry landed first on Bougainville 8 Nov 43 and was followed by the 129th Infantry on 13 Nov

43 and the 145th Infantry which landed 19 Nov 43. Relieving the Marines there, the division took over the area

perimeter defense, constructed roads and bridges, conducted patrols, and repulsed eight Japanese divisional

attacks during March 1944

Bougainville

Why Bougainville? Most Japanese air attacks were launched from Rabaul, Bougainville and Buka, just north

of Bougainville. Possession of these islands would give our air force advanced bases for their operations further

north. Bougainville is approximately 125 miles long and 48 miles across at it's widest point. Approximately

60,000 Japanese occupied the island, mostly around Baku with it's airport and along the east shore with it's low-

lying cultivated plantations and which would be the most logical point to attack. General MacArther chose the

most illogical point of entry. Empress Augusta Bay was on the west side of the island and was separated from

the east side by swamps, a network of rivers, and dense impenetrable mountainous jungle. Besides the

immediate advantages to be gained by the capture of the beachhead area, there was an important strategic

advantage. The Japanese, isolated from any support or reinforcement by the U. S. fleet and Air Force, would

eventually have to come out of their retreat and, for the first time in the South Pacific, fight an offensive war.

With defensive positions firmly established and a strong perimeter bristling with gun emplacements and fields

of fire, the theory was, the Yanks could sit back and cut the Japs down like clay pigeons. The theory worked,

but the Japs were not exactly clay pigeons.

Landing at Empress Augusta Bay on Bougainville

The 148th landed on Bougainville with the 37th Division on Nov. 9, 1943. The American position at that time

was nothing but green jungle and mud. First mission was to establish a defense perimeter for the beachhead.

On Nov.10th the push inland began with the right flank of the 148th moving 1,000 yard north. Snipers kept

them on edge and there were 5 Jap plane attacks during the day. They advanced another 2,000 yards on Nov

15th. On Nov 21 they advanced another 1,000 yards; then the next few days were spent moving forward to the

final defense line. Here on Nov 25th began the long arduous task of completing perimeter defenses, digging in

guns, stretching barbed wire, and laying communications. Edward dug in his 37 MM antitank gun on the

extreme left flank, next to and overlooking Empress Augusta Bay. That foxhole was his home for the next 8

months. While the infantry made it's way in stages to the final defense line, work in the rear was progressing

rapidly on the installations for which the beachhead had been secured. A fighter strip had been built and they

were clearing ground for a huge new bomber field. Thanksgiving passed. Days went by without any major

excitement except the air raids.

By this time the situation of the

Japanese had become precarious. They

had the protection of the mountains but

their supply lines were cut, food

diminishing, bombed daily, they were

faced with the unhappy alternative of

remaining in hiding and starving, or

launching a full scale attack to wipe out

the American forces on the island. They

chose the latter.

The stage was set, and the curtain

about to rise on some of the bloodiest,

most fanatical Banzai attacks made by

the Japanese in the South Pacific War.

The players were the boastful warriors of

the Japanese 17th Army, the cream of

the Jap Militarists, pitted against a

civilian army of battling clerks, farmers,

mechanics, carpenters, schoolboys, and

business men, molded into an efficient,

blood-thirsty army by the blood-letting

on New Georgia. The American beachhead was on a coastal plain about two miles deep, lying at the foot of the

towering Crown Prince range of volcanic mountains. Patrols discovered that the Japs were assembling for a

major attack on Hill 700 which overlooked the airfield

William Vernon Gordon died February 23, 1944 on Bougainville

HEAD QUARTERS 148TH

INFANTRY

APO 37

Office of the Chaplain

April 18, 1944

Harriet M. Gordon

Box 75

Draper, Utah

My Dear Friend:

I wish to express my sympathy at the death of your loved one. He gave his life

courageously and in honor for his country and we all trust that his sacrifice shall not be

in vain but that the peace for which he was fighting shall come to pass.

It is my prayer that your confidence in God and His care for the souls of our dead

will be a comfort to you. We will live in the hope of immortality so we can see our loved

ones again. "Those whom we have loved long since and lost awhile."

I regret to state that the body of your loved one has not and probably will not be

recovered. He was killed in action in enemy territory. His unit had other casualties in

attempting to recover the dead. At a later date a patrol was sent into this territory but was

unable to locate and trace any of the bodies either buried or unburied. This makes an

added burden to your sorrow, but let me assure you that everything was done that could

be done to secure the bodies for proper burial. However a Memorial Service was held in

his units and proper respect was paid to the sacrifice he made.

William was a man who was well liked by the men of his unit and he will be

missed greatly out here. We trust that we may have added courage to carry on for

him.

Any request or question that you may have concerning the personal effects of

William may be directed to the Quarter Master General, Washington 25 D. C.

Sincerely yours,

Joel M. Wareing

Chaplain (Major)

148 Infantry

This is a mistake

Vern killed on Bougainville,

Solomon Islands

BOUGAINVILLE vs TRUK

Some of Vernon Gordon’s obituaries show that he died on Truk Island. However, during February, 1944; the Division he was assigned to and was on Bougainville in the Solomon Islands.

During Mid-February 1944 the US Navy conducted extensive aerial attacks on Truck Island, however the US Army was not involved in these engagements.

February 17/18 - U.S. Carrier-based planes destroy the Japanese naval base at Truk in the

Caroline Islands.

BISHOP OTIS A. PIERCE: "My brothers and sisters, one year ago today, Brother Vern Gordon sat in this Chapel

at the services of his Mother. 'Rather a coincidence that milestones happen so often.

As you all know, these are memorial services for Brother William Vernon Gordon, who was killed in action

in the South Pacific on February 23 [1944]. The program arranged is in accordance of the family and Sister

Rayola. The honorary pallbearers are:

Vern Richins Ray Baker

Anthon Sund Vyron Baker

Enar Sund Alvin Hill

The program will proceed as follows: Advancement of the colors by Post Commander C.E. Buckley;

opening song by the male quartet, O.D. Ballard Wndell Vawdrey, Lloyd Diamond, and A.J. Henderson

accompanied by Sister A.J. Henderson. The invocation 'will be offered by Brother Arnold Adamson. Vocal duet,

"In the Garden," sung by Wendell Vawdrey and Emma Vawdrey. The first speaker will be Brother J.E.

Mickelsen, member of the State Presidency. Second speaker will be Brother Frank Nelson, a very close neighbor

and friend. Violin duet "Ah Sweet Mystery of Life" by Sister Margaret Smith and Brother Elden Brown; then we

will have remarks by Crozier Kimball, then by Brother Orson Smith, a relative. Organ selection 'Oh My Father"

by Sister Pixton; remarks by myself and followed by the male quartet, "Cast Thy Bread Upon The Water." This is

as far as we will announce at this time."

ADVANCEMENT OF THE COLORS: The congregation stood during the advancement of the colors under the

direction of the American Legion, Post No. 35.

"I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES" was sung by the male quartet, O.D. Ballard, A.J. Henderson,

Wendell Vawdrey, and Lloyd Diamond, accompanied on the piano by Mrs. A.J. Henderson.

INVOCATION BY ARNOLD ADAMSON: "Our Father in Heaven, hallowed by Thy name. 'We have met this day

in memorial service in honor of Brother William Vernon Gordon, who was killed in defense of this our country.

Our Father, we ask that you let a rich portion of Thy holy spirit rest down upon him.

Bless those who are called to speak and sing and try to console this bereaved family, especially bless this

dear Sister Rayola who has given her all on that altar, and Father, in as much as we aren't permitted to have the

body of this soldier with us today, we ask Thee to let it rest in a holy plot, a hallowed place. Heavenly Father, let it

be surrounded by Tropical flowers and trees; let the morning sun warm it with soft breezes, caressing it, and the

eternal rains refresh it, and at these things, these elements are kind to the plot, let the same elements bring a

reassurance to this dear Sister as the spring time opens the roads. May she know that he will again raise and when

the Lord calls him, reunite his spirit with the body.

- 1 –

Bless her, make the sunshine of her smile return to cheer the hearts of all of us. She has been a tower of

strength and to her beloved Mother in the bereavement of her Father and in the loss of her husband's Mother, she

has been the one who brought joy to their life, and let her continue on for we are indeed in a great struggle.

Many are called to mourn. Many hearts are broken and sad, and let us, Heavenly Father, rededicate our

lives that this young may, has not given his life in vain. Let’s dedicate them to the cause that the "Government by

the people, of the people and for the people may not perish from the earth"----Amen.

"IN A GARDEN” a vocal duet sung by Wendell Vawdrey and Emma Vawdreye

J. B. MIMLSER, FIRST SPEAKER: "'If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we, above all men are most

miserable.’ Today we are called upon to pay our last respect to one of our loved ones who has made the supreme

effort, one who has given his all for the preservation of this country we call our own. He, along with many other of

our boys, has been called to the colors. He has been asked to go out and try to stop the hand that would destroy us.

He has gone out to fight, to do everything within his power along with the rest of the boys, to make this country a

fitting place to live in.

The Prophets that have gone before us have told us that this land we live in is a land blessed above all other

lands and I think that when this promise was given to the people that the same promise incurred-an obligation

along with it, that we were expected to protect this land from all that was evil and do the best we could to preserve

it and the freedom for each and everyone of us and our posterity. Now Vern has gone forth and he was one among

others that was caught in the net of those that didn’t come back--and God bless his memory, bless his family& and

bless everyone that is connected with him that we might cherish his memory, that we might do end act in such a

may that we might show some appreciation for the things that these boys are doing for use.

I have been acquainted with Vern for not too many years and all that I can say about him is good. I know

his wife much better than I know him, she works at the plant with us and I have never seen a woman that has been

more uplifting with her smile as she passes and her “how do you do" or "good morning" and it is a pleasure to

work with that kind of people.

. As I read that ‘if in this life only we had hope in Christ, we would of all men., be the most miserable.' —

our Church sends out, it has done in the past, thousands to preach the gospel to every kind of tongue and belief.

'When the Savior was crucified on the cross, he was put in the sepulcher, lay there

three days and was resurrected. He told the fellows that were crucified with him that "today thou shall be with me

in paradise." Many of our neighbors, not of our faith have understood this testimony that today He would most

then in Heaven, but that we don't believe. The scriptures tell us different. The scriptures tell us that the Savior

went to preach to those who were disobedient in the day of Noah like to other people who hadn't received the

gospel that had possibly become wayward and if the Savior had to preach to those in the prison, could it be just as

possible that they needed missionaries on the other side. When you think of the people that belong to the church if

they

- 2 -

were to preach the gospel, and they shall, to all the people that died since the day of Adam, it seems to me that

maybe they needed missionaries over there, and who knows but what Vern is one of our missionaries who had

fulfilled his calling on this earth and was called to a mission to preach on the other side; gone to preach to his

buddies lost in the same conflict. It is hard to say, but I might be convinced such is the case.

We know that the gospel prepares them before the end comes and we know if they don't receive in this life,

they, will yet receive or have the privilege of receiving it hereafter .and if they do, they must have somebody to

preach it to them there, and I believe when a man has been faithful in this state of existence and is called to the

other side, that he is called there for a purpose, that he is called to preach the gospel to those in prison, and I

believe Vern is one of those boys who fulfilled his mission here and just because he belonged to the colors, I don't

think had anything to do with it. I think that those that die in the fulfillment of duty to their country and freedom

will gain a very high reward on the other side. It is not my purpose to talk any longer--I pray that the Lord will

have mercy on this family, that the sorrow that comes with this passing may be lightened, that we all may be able

to gain some strength in knowing there is a hereafter, that we may gain consolation that not in this life only there is

hope, there is hope after this life, May God bless us-=--Amen."

FRANK NELSON, SECOND SPEAKER: "My dear friends, today we meet in memory of a very dear friend, Vern.

‘The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away.' Today he has taken from us one of the greatest men I have every

known—but may this man's influence continue on in the years to follow and may be continue to guide us in there

hours of sorrow.

This man and Rayola have been as a brother and sister to me and my wife. They would come over and

bring a cake or pie and we would have a real festival together and make various plans, but now those plans must

be altered, but I know that Vern's influence will continue and guide Rayola. This is my prayer that it will.

Vern put his trust in us that we would help and do all that we could to make it easier and more pleasant for

Rayola and may I always be strong enough to continue and to uphold his trust, I had hoped that some day in the

future Vern would return and come home, but someday we will again see him and I hope and pray that his friends

will not forget his memory or Rayola, in her time of need. This is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ—Amen."

"AH SWEET MYSTERY OF LIFE" a violin duet was played by Margaret Smith and Elden Brown, accompanied

by Claudia Dunyon.

CROZIER KIMBALL, THIRD SPEAKER: "One year age last July, I took the train at Salt Lake City for the state

of Wyoming, and as I was looking out of the window I noticed right close by, the ear a young soldier with his wife,

an expectant mother, I was close enough that I could hear the conversation that was carried on between this

couple. In a few moments I found myself weakening, although they were perfect strangers to me. Soon the train

was to pull out of the station any I saw this young man take his sweet companion in his arms, caress her, and bid

continued

- 3 -

her farewell. She walked back a little distance and turned and said, calling him by name 'I cannot bear this.' 'I

cannot leave you.' He turned again and walked back, placing his arms around her again, and I want to tell you, my

brothers and sisters, it would take the strongest heart in the world to witness what I had witnessed there without

weakening, Finally the young men had the courage as the train was pulling out and he came down the aisle in the

car and sat quite close to me. I got up, walked over to his seat, sat down beside him, put my arms around him and

said, ‘My boy, this is a hard trail. I listened to all you had to say. I couldn’t help it.' He said. ‘Yes, I obtained my

furlough merely a few days ago and it seems only one night since I came.’ He thanked me for my kindness.

I thought. of Rayola, I didn't see her parting, but I can image what it was. I can see her and Vern in their

separation. As I have gone to the plant I have met her in the halls and as Brother Miickelsen said,. always a

cheerful face. I always asked her how Vern was and with a perfect confidence in her heart, she would say, 'He is all

right ‘ ‘I am looking forward to his coming home. I am preparing and doing all that I can so that that meeting will

be complete.’

Brothers and Sisters, do we realize the sacrifice that this sweet girl has made? I wonder in my mind why

these boys have to die for me. It isn't their war. I had a man say right in my presence, about my age, he said, 'These

boys are fighting their own war not mine.’ How can you say. that? What have these dear boys done, these 18 year

old boys to have to fight for you and you and I? Made him take it back. He knew then that he was wrong. My

heart bleeds - when I thing that the young of our country have to go. What have I, you and all of us done that we

are in this conflict? I wonder how could I repay Vern? If I gave a million or a billion dollars. I could not repay him

for the life that he. boa given for me. That is how I look at these things.

Now then, Rayola, there is only just a few matters that I would like to say to you to give you some comfort.

Brother Mickelsen made a wonderful quotations 'If in this life only we had hope in Christ, we above all men are

most miserable.' And now; Rayola by the holy spirit of promise you have been sealed to your mate for time and

eternity. You keep that vow sacred.. I know it is in the stock and the family and you are prepared. You won’t

became discouraged because of what has happened. You continue and you stay with Vern and you will so conduct

your life and the sweetness of your disposition so that

you can meet this fine young man who has gives his all to the defense of the greatest country of the world and there

you will have his companionship into the ages of all eternity. It is our privilege, our determination, and our

heritage to carry this message to the ends of the earth that many people my inherit the same great blessings you

enjoy and the hope you have is the supreme hope that will give you a resurrection and eternal life.

Bless your sweet Mother, your brothers and your sisters and your friends and you relatives. Bless Brother

Frank, my nephews -what he said Comes straight from the bottom of his heart. Whatt would it be without friends?

My brothers and sisters. I have often thought in my life is there what boy, girl, man or woman would I not go to the

end of the road for to bring to then the message of eternity. God bless you, dear Reyola & may comfort and cheer

come into your heart. May you have joy and happiness I pray in the name of Jesus Christy-Amen."

- 4 –

ORSON SMITH, FOURTH SPEAKER: "I believe my brothers and sisters, that this is the hardest task I have ever

undertaken. We thought a lot of Vern in our family. The biggest tribute that I could pay to any man, I think, would

be that he had the love of a woman like Rayola. I have watched her closely. She went to California, put up with a

lot to be near him. She drove her trailer house to Seattle and Dame back for the sane purpose.

Sometimes we can drive people to pay respect; we can do things that we like, but when out of the love of the

heart comes devotion like that, there is something. I know Rayola is good to go through it all. I know something

what it means to her. I think that it was Shakespeare that quotes; ‘Cowards die many times before they are dead;

the valiant test of life is death' The greatest tribute that I could pay Rob, who died less than a year ago, was that he

only died once. Rob had courage and confidence to go on. "The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away."

Rayole has always been a bundle of sunshine* Her face lights up and smiles appear and I hope that it

continues that way. I think it was Shakespeare, no, Tonnyson, who made a little poem we don’t like to believe:

'Full many a gem of purest ray serene.

The dark unfathomed eaves of ocean bear.

Full many a flower is born to blush .unseen

And waste its sweetness on the desert air.

In the last days Vern will have restored to him that power of life, temporarily taken away from him. As I

look into life, it seems little time that I was a kid. Life is a short thing –it seems quite a time when I look ahead, and

I hope that our Heavenly Father will. give Rayola comfort to carry on, the comfort to appreciate things in life that

are worthwhile.

It isn't my purpose to speak long. I deemed it an honor to be considered for it. When Merna called the

school the other day end said that Vern had been killed, it vas a different school day the rest of the days but I know

that we all have the assurance that this life isn't the whole thing and that knowledge and that comfort should add

to our happiness when we think that perhaps after all, life is not just a passing thing.

'Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrection

Behold it has been made known unto me by an angel

That the spirits of all men, an soon as they are departed

From this mortal body, yea the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home that

God who gave them life

And then shall it come to pass that the

Spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness

Which is called "paradise," a stele of rest, a state of peace.

Therefore, my son, see that you are merciful,

Unto your brethren; deal justly, judge righteously,

And do good continually and if ye do all these things

Then shall ye receive your reward; yea, ye shell have mercy restored unto you again.

- 5 –

And I think that if Rayola could read those passages occasionally and known that her husband is in a state

o£ passing, a state of rest, instead of out in the unknown where we can't destroy our own soul by ourselves. May

God grant his choicest blessings to Reyola and to her mother end to all the family, that they may feel of this as a

passing and of the sorrow, may it find comfort in their souls and I ask it in His name who takes us all home sooner

or later."--Amen.

"OH MY FATHER" A organ solo was played by Mrs. R. L. Pixton,

REMARKS BY BISHOP OTIS A. PIERCE: "My brothers and sisters, it was always my through in. life to say-

what I thought I could and say it as exactly as I could. Of all the things I can remember about Vern, the thing I like

most was that he was a man when man counted, that any trouble that was brought to his face, he was willing to

give what he thought was right, wouldn’t ask any questions, that was his soul desire. I know today that Vern is

going on because a man’s attitude in knowing and in handling of the things he doe largely governs his when he

leaves this world.

I found amoung my souvenirs some very good material, I would like to pass on today. 'Some of Will

Rogers’ thoughts on the-hereafter were recalled from the pages of a book written by his old friend, the late Charles

M. Russell, Montana's cowboy artist.

Russell died several years ago as he was about to complete the book, "Trails Plowed Under," a collection of

reminiscences of the old west, illustrated by his own paintings and line drawings. The book was published last year

by Doubleday-Doran.

Rogers wrote the introduction in the form of a letter to his old friend in the other world, It was done about

nine years ago.

With characteristic modesty,. Rogers disclaimed the ability too write an introduction. Continuing, he said:

"There ain't much news here to tell you. You know the Big Boss Gent sent a hand over and: got you so

quick, Charley, But I guess he needed a good man pretty bad. I hear they been working short handed over there

pretty much all the tune. I guess it*s hard for Him to get hold of good men; they are just getting scares everywhere,

I bet you hadn't been up there three days until you had out your old pencil and was a drawing something

fumy about some of the eir old punchers. I bet you Mark Twain and old Bill Rye, and Whitcomb Riley, and a

whole bunch of those old joshers was just a-waiting for you to pop in with all the latest ones. What kind of a bird is

Washington and Jefferson? I bet they are regular fellows when. you meet ‘em, ain’t they? Most big men are. I

would like to see the bunch that is gathered around you the first time you tell the one about putting limburger

cheese in the old nester's whiskers. Don't tell that, Charley, until you get Lincoln around you. He would love that. I

bet you and him kinder throw in-together when you get well acquainted. Darn it, when I get to thinking about all

than top hands up there, if I could just hold a horse wrangling job with 'em, I wouldn't mind following that wagon

myself.

-6-

You sill run onto me old dad up there, Charley; for he was a real cowhand, and I bet he's running a wagon,

and you will pop into some well- kept ranch house over under some cool shady trees and you will be asked to have

dinner, and it will be the best one yea ever had in your life. Weil, when you are a-thanking the women. folks, you

just tell the sweet-looking little old lady that yea knew her boy back on an outfit you used to rope for, and tell the

daughters that you knew their brother, and if you see a cute little rascal running around there, kiss him for me.

"Well, ' can't write . you anymore, Charley. My paper's all wet; it must be raining in this old bunkhouse.

Of .course,.we are all just a-hanging' on here as long as we can, I don't know why we hate to go: we know

it's better there. Maybe it's because we haven't done anything that will live after we are gone.

From you old friend,"

"Will"

I appreciate very much my association with Vern and Rayola and the splendid attitude that they have had.

I have said many things that enters the heart of an individual for it is the destiny that Cod reaches and answers

your prayers. I would .like to read here the words of a poet:

We are building .our. home in the valley of life,

By the side of eternity sea.

And the things that we do mid these scenes of strife,.

Shall decide what that home shall be,

Every tho’t leaves its trace on the beautiful. Place

Every dead be it evil or fair;

And the structures will show

All the life lived below,

All the sorrow, the sinning, the care.

We are building our home on the beautiful street

While we dwell in the body of fear,

And the roses that bloom so pure and so sweet

Must be watered and nursed by tears.

And the light that will shine with a glory divine

Must be found in the darkness and gloom

and the foundations laind in the clouds and the shade

Of the Path that leads down to the tomb.

We are building our home on eternity's shore

While see walk in the structures of Clay,

We are shipping material, on before us

At the close of each fleeting day.

We are sending the tho't

That our spirits have wrought

And the timber is grown from the seeds we have sown

Mid the shadow of sorrow and pain.

-7-

We are building our home may the angels of light

Give us wisdom where ‘ere we may stray

That the mansions eternal may be fashioned alright

And the sunlight of truth be its day--

May the rainbow of love form the arches above

On the pillars of faith strong and high

And our spirits be blessed

With the sweet peace of rest

We .have sent to our home in the sky.

May God help us to accomplish the things and do our jobs as well as Vern did his, I humbly pray in Jesus' name ---

A men."

BISHOP OTIS A, PIERCE: 'We shall now-have a tribute by Arthur E. Peterson after which we shall have the

presentation of the flag to Sister Rayola by Chaplain A. E. Buckley."

TRIBUTE BY ARTHUR E. PETERSON: 'My dear brothers and sisters, we have met on this most sad but very

sacred occasion to pay tribute not only to the heroes of Our national life, but. to that great class who are now

feeling the pains of the heroes of. wat; the wives of service men. In giving that tribute today I whis to do it in two

parts. First, I wish to tell a very simple story in a very simple way and follow its application in a prayer that is

adapted for this occasion. First:

Many years ago there lived one of Utah's most famous educators in this community, and one day as he road

the nearby hills, he happened_ upon to boys seemingly holding; something in their hands. By curiosity he

approached them, came up close and said, "Boys what are you doing? One little fellow said,

"Mr. we are flying kites, can't you see them?" The educator looked and said, "No, I can't." "They are out there,

can't you see them?" "No, how do you know they are there?" One little fellow came back with this statement: "I

can tell it by the tug on the string." "I can tell it by the tug on the string."

Today we have given tugs on our hearts strings and I want to say to Sister Gordon that when she has tugs

on her heart's strings that come so great that she can hardly stand them, she has some things she can, do. First, she

can build up the sacred memory of her loving husband. Second, she can think back of this day, the beautiful

thoughts expressed, the prayers and the music rendered and the heap of her friends. Third, she can go back to her

philosophy of life and she has one to explain this death. She can asko God and ask Him in prayer and in the future,

Sister Gordon, sometimes read over this adapted prayer that is a blessing of the American Legion Post Ho. 35

Utah. This is the prayer---a tribute to wives of service men and dedicated to Sister Gordon, whose husband lost his

life in the service of this country, and as I read it, let each of us say it to ourselves silently.

.

"Almighty God, when our vision fails, and our understanding is darkened by the tragedies of war; when the ways

of life seem hard and its brightness gone, grant us the wisdom that deepens faith end enlarges trust. Give us that

quiet confidence, patient trust, and living faith in Thee to console ourselves when Thou hest seen fit to take from

our midst an exemplary national hero.

-8-

Grant his sorrowing wife and kin calm assurance that *Thy will be done' always for the welfare of all both here

and in the hereafter.

Help us today to recognize the characteristics of loving and faithful wives who must bear the anguish from the

cruelties of war. Throughout the years Thou hast taught them to have courage and hope to press onward with

hearts fixed on Thee. Thou hest directed their minds and watched over their paths with guiding love. Thou hast

given them .the desire never to doubt Thou wilt lead them to a worthy end, and that Thou hest in store for them a

perfect gladness of which at times we see some glimpses here. Thou hast given them the power to heal their broken

hearts by faith in Thee, mad the willingness to share human sufferings that Thy way of life may prevail.

And now we beseech Thy blessings upon them. Fortify them against disappointment and calamity. Preserve them

from yielding to dejection, and teach them that evil will not hurt them if in true loyalty and affection which they

once gave their loving husbands, they seek refuge in Thee.

Draw their hearts unto Thee. In Thy tender mercy, allow Thy spirit .to reach them, comfort their broken hearts,

and prepare them 'to meet the future with faith in Thee and a confidence that in so doing Thy guiding hand will

direct their every-earthy effort.

.

In their spirit of loyalty and faithfulness, we beg Thy mercy. With bitter tears me invoke Thee to end all wars and

implore the peace for which we long and be our help, our protection end safeguard.'

Amen

Chaplain Buckley, will you present this prayer to Sister Gordon at the presentation of the flag ?"

CHAPLAIN BUCKLEY: "The Government of the 'United States presents to you this flag through. the Amerioan

Legion under which our camrade served., and now in memory of our departed oomrade, let us stand in silent

reverence."

BISHOP OTIS A. PIERCE: "After our benediction by Golden Howlett, we will ask you to remain seated until we

have the salute fired and the taps sounded by Elmen Molckelsen and W.O. Boberg, then you are dismissed."

BENEDICTION BY GOLDEN HOWLETT: "Our heavenly Father, at the close of this memorial service, we feel to

return to Thee the gratitude of our hearts for the pleasant surroundings in which me have been able to meet, for

the peace and the quiet, for the flowers, for the words of comfort and the gospel messages given here today.

We read God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform and we know, Heavenly Father, there is

no sacrifice given but what is returned to us in the future time with greater extreme, and we ask Thee, as relatives

and friends., as the days come and go, that we may extend a hand of friendship to our Sister and greet her on

occasions that will help strengthen her along with her Mother and others of the family, and bless us all, Heavenly

Father, that we will understand in a measure the cause of these things and the benefit that we will derive in time to

come through the struggle we are in.

9 –

Dismiss us with Thy blessings, go with us to our homes, be with us that we may be protected, that Thy spirit may

be continue with us, we ask in the name of Jesus Christ—Amen.”

BISHOP OTIS A. PIERCE: “In behalf of the family, me certainly wish to thank all of those who have been with us

today, and all those who have in any way assisted on the program. This concluded the program and you are all

dismissed from this point,” - 10 –

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=10473948 FIND A GRAVE

Willliam Vernon Gordon

Birth: 10 Jul 1912 Lincoln, Bingham, Idaho

Death: 23 Feb 1944, WWII Bougainville, North Solomons,

Papua New Guinea

Burial: 12 Mar 1944, Draper City Cemetery Draper, Salt

Lake County, Utah

Plot: C-1-4

Your tombstone stands neglected and alone.

The name and date are chiseled out on polished, marbled stone.

It reaches out to all who care. It is too late to mourn.

You did not know that I exist. You died and I was born.

Yet each of us are cells of you in flesh, in blood, in bone.

Our heart contracts and beats a pulse entirely not our own.

Dear Ancestor, the place you filled so long ago

Spreads out among the ones you left who would have loved you so.

I wonder as you lived and loved, I wonder if you knew

That someday I would find this spot and come to visit you.

Author Unknown