John Rowland Stevenson

As one of many Post 12 Historians, I have come to learn of events gathered by research, and the research of my many predecessors. There are some who have written accounts, taken photographs, or archived post information, for historical purposes.  Stashed through out the Post 12 Cellar, we have located Pictures and Articles, along with other remarkable information, that need to be made available to post members, and the public. 

With the goal set for the purpose of making available as much information as possible, what information and where to start seems clear.   The Post 12 original namesake, and that of James D'Alessio, are placed here for your review. We welcome any additional information that you may know of, and welcome you to write us using " adjutant @ post12nj.org".

Details of John Rollie Stevenson’s Death

            Through a letter from Corporal Willard Wyman, who was near Sergeant John Rowland Stevenson when he killed in action on October 16, Mrs Stevenson, the mother of Rollie has been informed of the particulars of his death. Corporeal Wyman writes as follows:

Mrs. Stevenson and Family,

            Dear Friends:---I have received a letter from my sister in which she asks me to tell, if possible, the facts concerning Rollie’s death. Of course the real facts of a thing of this kind are hard to get but the following, I think is about correct.

            When we went over the top on Oct. 12, Rollie had command of the section on the left. The whole line, of  course, moved forward at once and drove the Hun, a line of resistance was established. Rollie had gained connection with the company on his left and was, of course, in communication with the rest of his company located on his right. I was with my automatic crew on his right, and saw him the next morning as I withdrew under heavy shell fire at the P. C.  or company commander a dug-out. He had gone to the dug-out for orders concerning further movements. Two officers were there who were anxious to locate the exact positions of the lines, and called for a volunteer to show them the way, and I heard him volunteer to go with them.