"George Stafford was on of those who fell before he had an opportunity to reach the scene of action.  That, of course was no fault of his. He was ready.  Mr. Stafford entered the service on October 4th as a machinist.

While at Fort Slocum he contracted the dread influenza and died on October 25th. The body was brought to his city and interred an St. Luke's Cemetery.  He was 30 years of age.

George Stafford was a young man of sterling character and one of the best liked boys in this city.  He was a great favorite among all who knew him.  He was as much a hero as if he fell before the German guns.

His life and death will always be an inspiration to the young manhood of Beacon."