Veteran Information
Date of Birth: Feb 18 1888
Date of Death: Jul 13 1952
Address: Rye NY
Branch of Service: U.S. Army
Service Number: 105th MG Battalion (via Sq A Cav)
Description
Alphonse A. Dixon
Early Life
Alphonse Arthur Dixon was born on February 18, 1888, in New York City, New York, the son of Mary A. Dixon and Dennis Dixon. He was raised in a working-class household and remained closely connected to New York City throughout his life.
By 1920, he was living in Manhattan with his mother and his brothers, John and Alexander, forming a household of adult working-age men in a rapidly expanding urban environment. At that time, he was employed as a clerk in an office, reflecting steady work within New York’s growing commercial economy, where clerical labor supported the city’s expanding business infrastructure.
World War I Service
Dixon enlisted in the New York National Guard on July 2, 1917, joining Troop B of Squadron A Cavalry in New York City. As the United States prepared for overseas service, the New York National Guard units were reorganized and federalized for wartime deployment.
Squadron A Cavalry was reorganized for World War I service as part of the 105th Machine Gun Battalion, which was assigned to the 27th Division. This transformation reflected the Army’s shift from traditional cavalry operations to the increased use of automatic weapons in modern warfare.
Dixon served in Headquarters Company during this transitional period, as the unit adapted from mounted cavalry to machine gun operations. He trained with his unit at Camp Wadsworth, South Carolina, one of the principal training centers for National Guard units preparing for overseas service.
His military service was cut short when he was discharged on March 18, 1918, by Surgeon’s Certificate of Disability, with a recorded 40 percent disability at the time of discharge. As a result, he did not deploy overseas with his unit. His record indicates that he sustained no wounds in action.
Life After Service
Following his discharge, Dixon returned to civilian life in New York City. By 1920, he was living with his family in Manhattan and working as a clerk, part of the city’s expanding office workforce.
Later in life, he transitioned into work as an electrician, indicating the development of a skilled trade and continued participation in New York’s labor economy. He remained a lifelong resident of the city, with addresses including West 48th Street in Manhattan.
Alphonse Arthur Dixon died on July 13, 1952, at the age of 64.
At the time of his death, he was survived by members of his extended family, including his brothers and relatives in New York.
His name is recorded on the Rye World War I Memorial, recognizing his service and connection to the community despite his residence in New York City.
Record Commentary: Enhanced local significance with inclusion of Rye World War I Memorial recognition. Strong National Guard narrative and clear handling of disability discharge. Well-balanced urban and military profile.
Tier Rating: A
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