Robert Huggins
World War I, or the "Great War", lasted from 1914-1918. The war was triggered by the assignation of Archduke Francis Ferdinand. From there, European countries joined the war. Originally, the United States remained neutral, but in 1917 joined in the war.

When the United States entered the war, the army was very small. There were only about 126,000 men. However, more soon joined so that by the end of the war there were almost five million men and women enlisted in the armed forces. One of these brave men was Robert C. Huggine of Nekoosa, Wisconsin.

When Robert Huggins enlisted in the summer of 1918, the war was at a turning point. The Germans had been invading farther and beating the allies. However, after the Second Battle of Marne, this started to change. After the allies won this battle, they started to advance. By September, they had gained back all the land they lost during the spring.

While things were starting to go better in Europe, Robert Huggins was at the Great Lakes Training Station. More than 100,000 men trained there during World War I. It was, and still is, a naval recruitment and training center. Unfortunately, Robert Huggins died there from pneumonia on September 26, 1918, not two months before the war ended.

There were so many brave soldiers who gave their life fighting for their country. It is a tradegy that men like Robert Huggins died. Their service to our country should never be forgotten.

Anna Culhane, Student
East Junior High, Wisconsin Rapids