The Ultimate Sacrifice–The Great War (1914-1918 –Fairmount Cemetery, Jetmore, Hodgeman Co., Kansas

The base of Pvt. Phillips headstone reads: Died in Service Wagoner Evacuation Ambulance Co. 29 Medical Dept.

Frank Phillips was the fourth of six children born to Frank and Jennie Phillips. He was born in Healy, Kansas on November 23, 1895. He grew up with his brothers and sisters on the family farm.

On August 26th, 1918, Pvt. Phillips reported to Camp Funston at Fort Riley, Kansas. There was an influenza outbreak at the camp and unfortunately, Frank became a victim. He passed away on October 16, 1918, with his father at his bedside. He is buried with his parents in Fairmount Cemetery.

Note: A wagoner was a soldier who drove a wagon transporting supplies. Horses and mules pulled the wagon carrying food, water, medical supplies, gun, ammunition, etc. to the front lines. The wagoner was also responsible for moving the wounded from the battlefield to a field hospital. The sooner a wounded soldier arrived at the field hospital the better chance of survival which meant the wagoner drove their wagons to the front lines.

The use of motorized ambulances was also used in the Great War but was limited with terrain and gasoline.