Chuckie’s parents received a letter from the War Department providing them with the temporary burial location of their son in a US military cemetary located twenty-four miles north of Marseilles, France. It also references information will be provided at a later date for making arrangements for his final interment. At that time the next of kin, authorized to make the decision regarding their loved one’s interment, was given the option of having the remains returned to the United States for permanent interment at a national or private cemetery, or permanently interred at the overseas American military cemetery in the region where the death occurred.

Dear Mr. Wilson,

The War Department is most desirous that you be furnished information regarding the burial location of your son, the late Staff Sergeant Charles. M. Wilson, A.S.N. 13 108 714.

The records of this office disclose that his remains are interred in the United Statement Military Cemetery Luynes, Plot B, row 22, grace 259.

This cemetery is located twenty-four miles north of Marseilles, France, and is under the constant care and supervision of Unites States military personnel.

The War Department has now been authorized to comply, at Government expense, with your feasible wishes regarding final interment, here or abroad, of the remains of your loved one. At a later date, this office will, without any action on your part, provide you with full information and solicit your detailed desires.

Please accept my sincere sympathy in your great loss.

Sincerely yours,

 

Thomas B. Larkin
Major General – The 32nd Quartermaster General
February 1946-March 1949

As Quartermaster General, Larkin launched the program for return and final burial of American service personnel and civilians who died overseas during World War II. In January 1946, he was named by President Truman as Quartermaster General of the Army.  He served in that capacity until March 1949.