PVT Robert Berry Gentry

PVT Robert Berry Gentry, b. 11 Nov 1920 - d. 6 Aug 1944. Son of Smith Berry and Nannie Belle (Wise) Gentry of Washington County, VA. Nancy Casteel has provided this abbreviated biography: "Robert was born in Green Springs, Washington Co., Va. After the death of his mother, his father moved the family to Sullivan Co., Tn. He was about 11 years of age at the time. Robert attended Sinking Springs School. On February 18, 1942 Robert registered with Selective Service. At that time he lived in Bluff City, Tennessee with his family. He was 21 years of age, stood 5'6" and weighed 135 lbs. Robert had dark brown hair and brown eyes. He worked at a cement block manufacturing plant in Bristol owned by Riley Phillips. On Nov. 20, 1942 he made application for the transfer of license plates for a 1935 Dodge Coupe. He bought the vehicle from Edward Stone, 1208 Galt Street, Bristol, Tn. Robert entered the U.S. Army on December 11, 1942 and completed basic training at Ft. Oglethorpe, Ga. He then was assigned to the Infantry and shipped overseas. Robert was Killed In Action on August 5, 1944. He was buried in the U.S. Military Cemetery Le Chene-Guerin, plot A, row 6, grave 112. This cemetery is located fourteen miles south of St.Lo, France. On 2 October 1947, his father, Smith B. Gentry requested that his body be returned to the United States for burial. The process was begun and on November 2, 1948 Robert's remains arrived at the Bluff City, Tn. Funeral Home escorted by PFC. James H. Byrd. Robert is buried in the Morning View Cemetery, Bluff City, Sullivan Co. Tn. (Source: Selective Service Card, Title Transfer for automobile, U.S. Army Military Records)"

PVT Gentry was assigned to B company 116th Infantry on 28 Jun 1944 and then A Company 116th Infantry on 30 Jun 1944.