Sgt. Paul Davis McElroy

Our Hometown Heroes

Paul Davis McElroy

Helped Light the Flame of Freedom

Sgt. Paul Davis McElroy was born July 27, 1917. Enlisting in the Army-Air Corps, on December 5, 1940, McElroy was assigned to the 71st Bomber Squadron of the 38th Bomber Group.

McElroy died after World War II was officially over, declared Missing in Action on December 12, 1945. He has a monument dedicated to his life and service to his country in both the American Cemetery located in Manila, Philippines and in Griffin at Oak Hill Cemetery.

The inscription reads:
He lived to bear his country’s arms. He died to save its honor. He was a soldier…and he knew a soldier’s duty. His sacrifice will help to keep aglow the flaming torch that lights our lives…that millions yet unborn may know the priceless job of liberty, and we who pay him homage, and revere his memory, in solemn pride, rededicate ourselves to a complete fulfillment of the task for which he so gallantly has placed his life upon the alter of man’s freedom.