Arthur P. Rosenquest
Early Life
Arthur P. Rosenquest was born on May 4, 1890, in Rye, New York, and was a lifelong member of the community during his early years. He grew up at 249 Purchase Street, where he was part of a family engaged in the building trades, and followed a similar path as a carpenter and builder.
By the time of his World War I draft registration in 1917, he was employed locally in construction, reflecting the skilled labor force that supported Rye’s development in the early twentieth century.
World War I Service
Rosenquest entered military service on May 26, 1918, when he was inducted at Port Chester, New York, into the United States Army. He was assigned to Company D of the 2nd Anti-Aircraft Machine Gun Battalion, a unit responsible for defending against enemy aircraft and supporting ground operations during World War I.
Anti-aircraft machine gun battalions were a relatively new development during the war, created to counter the increasing use of enemy aircraft for reconnaissance and bombing. These units provided mobile firepower to protect troops, supply lines, and key positions from aerial attack.
Rosenquest served overseas from June 30, 1918, to February 2, 1919, placing him in France during the final phases of the war. During his service, he was severely wounded in action, an indication that his unit operated in areas exposed to active combat conditions.
He served in the rank of Private First Class and was honorably discharged on February 22, 1919.
Life After Service
Following his return from military service, Rosenquest resumed his work in the construction field, eventually becoming a builder. He later relocated from Rye and spent his later years in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Arthur P. Rosenquest died on December 31, 1970, at the age of 80. Graveside services were held at Pine Grove Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his son, Arthur P. Rosenquest Jr.; his daughter-in-law, Pauline; three grandchildren; and several cousins. His wife, Katherine Rosenquest, had predeceased him.