Walter Frank Sherburne
Early Life
Walter Frank Sherburne was born on November 28, 1891, in Rye, New York, the son of John H. Sherburne and Velzora N. Hoxie. He grew up in Rye, residing on Milton Road in the Milton Point section, and remained closely connected to the community throughout his life.
By the time of the First World War, he was working as a grocer in Rye, reflecting the local, small-business economy of the period.
World War I Service
Sherburne entered military service on May 25, 1917, when he enlisted in the New York National Guard in New York City. He was assigned to the Supply Company 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.
The 27th Division was composed largely of New York National Guard units and served with British forces on the Western Front. Its units were heavily engaged in major operations, including the breaking of the Hindenburg Line in 1918, one of the decisive actions of the war.
Serving in the Supply Company, Sherburne was responsible for logistics, including the movement of food, equipment, and essential materials to front-line units. While not always in direct combat roles, supply troops operated under hazardous conditions, often within range of artillery and enemy fire while maintaining the flow of resources necessary for sustained operations.
He served overseas in France from May 10, 1918, to March 9, 1919. During his service, he advanced through several enlisted grades, including Wagoner, Private, and Private First Class, reflecting varied responsibilities within the logistical structure of his unit.
On December 14, 1918, he received a letter of commendation from Major General John F. O’Ryan, commanding the 27th Division, recognizing his service during the war.
He sustained no wounds or injuries in action and was honorably discharged on April 2, 1919.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Sherburne remained connected to Rye and Westchester County, though he later worked in broader commercial roles. By the 1930s, he was employed as a manager of a coal company and later worked as a representative for a brass and copper company, reflecting a transition into industrial and sales occupations.
He married Lena Augusta Sherburne in 1920, and the couple had one daughter, Lenore F. Sherburne.
Walter F. Sherburne died on March 23, 1980, in Broward County, Florida, at the age of 88.
At the time of his death, he was survived by members of his immediate family, though detailed records of survivors are limited.