Around 1919, the Kansas State Historical Society and the American Legion solicited biographical information from returning veterans (primarily members of the 35th and 89th infantry divisions) and the families of those who died in service, notably from the Gold Star Mothers. Each veteran or family member was asked to provide letters, photographs, a biography, and military records. This file contains correspondence from William J. Rombeck of Blue Rapids, Kansas, while serving overseas with the American Expeditonary Force. His letter is dated July 12, 1918. Accompanying his letter, is a note from his mother stating that this was the last letter she ever received from her son, who was killed in action in France on October 8, 1918. A photograph of William Rombeck is also included in the file.