John Beattie was killed in action in Italy on May 12, according to a telegram received by his parents Mr. and Mrs. John Beattie, 144 Main Street, Beacon NY.  

The Beacon soldier, overseas since December 23, 1943, was killed at the same time Stuart Strippel of Beacon was reported missing in action.  It was probably the start of the big offensive against the Nazis which let to the liberation of Rome.

In the service since May 21, 1942 Pvt. Beattie served in Africa for about three months before transferring to the Italy front which was about the last part of March.

The last letter the family received from John was written on May 10, two days before he was killed. In that letter he said he was fine and asked his parents not to worry as everything would soon be over and he would be home soon.

Before entering the service, John Beattie was employed by the National Biscuit Co.  He attended Beacon High School and was a member of Trinity Methodist Church.

Besides his parents, two sisters, Mrs. Gertrude McKeel, Fishkill and Mrs. Helen Sickler, Beacon survive.