Wilson, Robert L. Jr.

Description

Robert Lourie Wilson Jr. was born on September 16, 1895, in Rye, New York, the son of Robert Wilson and Mary Lourie Leishman. He grew up during a period when Rye was still a small, largely rural community, transitioning from its agricultural roots into a more connected suburban town with the expansion of railroads and nearby industry. Raised in a large family, he was one of several children, including brothers John, James, and Charles Donald Wilson, and sisters Margaret and Mary. He was educated in the Rye public schools and spent his early life at the family home on North Street in Rye.

As a young man, Wilson came of age during a time of significant change in America. The early 20th century brought increasing industrialization, the rise of automobiles, and shifting economic opportunities in Westchester County. At the time of his World War I draft registration, he was single and employed as a laborer, residing at 216 North Street in Rye, and had no prior military service.

WORLD WAR I SERVICE

Following the United States’ entry into World War I, Wilson enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on December 20, 1917, in New York City. After training at Parris Island and Quantico, he was deployed to France in March 1918 with the
5th Marines, part of the renowned
2nd Division.

Wilson served in several of the war’s most significant engagements, including the
Aisne Defensive,
Château-Thierry,
Marne Offensive,
the
Meuse-Argonne Offensive,
and operations in the
Champagne region.

During combat operations, he was wounded by a sniper while advancing through a contested village as German forces were being driven back. Reports at the time noted that his wound was clean and that his strong physical condition aided in his recovery, allowing him to return to duty. He later served with the Army of Occupation following the Armistice. For his service, he was awarded the
French Fourragère.

He was honorably discharged on August 13, 1919, as a Private First Class and returned home to Rye.

POSTWAR LIFE

Like many veterans, Wilson resumed civilian life during a period marked by both optimism and challenge. The 1920s brought economic growth, followed by the hardships of the Great Depression in the 1930s, which affected communities across Westchester County.

Wilson remained rooted in Rye throughout his life. He worked as a chauffeur and truck driver before becoming a self-employed landscape gardener. His work reflected the changing character of Rye, as estates, homes, and public spaces expanded in an increasingly suburban environment.

He was a member of the
American Legion and attended the Rye Presbyterian Church.

Robert L. Wilson Jr. died suddenly of a heart attack on March 29, 1962, at his home on North Street in Rye, New York, at the age of 66. At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Ethel Adele Ganun; his brothers James Wilson of Greenwich and Charles Wilson of Rye; and his sisters Margaret Bailey of Brewster and Agnes McCarthy of the Bronx.