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 information on Chester A. Bird, Machine Gun Company, 353rd Infantry. Chester died near Limey, France on September 12, 1918, in the Battle of St. Mihiel.