John Soule
Early Life
John William Soule was born on May 31, 1880, in Sandy Creek, New York. In early adulthood, he became connected to Westchester County, living in Harrison, New York, and working in the New York City area, including employment with the Topographical Bureau in Kew Gardens.
Although not a native of Rye, his inclusion on the Rye World War I memorial plaques reflects his recognized connection to the community and his service alongside other men of the region.
World War I Service
Soule entered military service prior to American involvement in World War I, enlisting on February 4, 1916, in the New York National Guard. He was assigned to Company M of the 7th Infantry Regiment, New York National Guard, which was later redesignated as part of the 107th Infantry Regiment of the 27th Infantry Division.
His early service coincided with the Mexican Punitive Expedition, when National Guard units were mobilized along the United States–Mexico border in response to cross-border conflict. This experience provided training and readiness that would later carry into World War I service.
With the United States’ entry into World War I, Soule continued his service as part of the 27th Division, which was deployed to France and attached to British forces on the Western Front. The division played a key role in major operations in 1918, including the assault on the Hindenburg Line.
Soule served overseas from May 10, 1918, to March 19, 1919. During his service, he advanced in rank from Private First Class to Corporal, reflecting increased responsibility within his unit.
He sustained no wounds or injuries in action and was honorably discharged on April 2, 1919.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Soule continued his civilian career, including work with the Topographical Bureau in New York City. He later resided in Connecticut, including Fairfield and Rocky Hill, as his life progressed.
He lived through a period of significant national change, including the Great Depression and the Second World War, and remained part of the broader regional workforce.
John W. Soule died on June 22, 1950, in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, at the age of 70. He was buried in Old Pine Grove Cemetery in Waterbury, Connecticut.
At the time of his death, detailed records of surviving family members are limited, though he was part of a larger family including several siblings.