• November 11, 1916 – June 17, 1943
• Born in Whitley County, Kentucky
• Enlisted From Knox County, Tennessee
• Liberal Arts 1934-1937
• Staff Sergeant – Army
• 87th Chemical Mortar Battalion
  • https://www.normandyamericanheroes.com/blog/87th-chemical-mortar-battalion-a-life-saving-support-for-the-infantrymen
  • Also see Connelly, Michael. The Mortarmen. Victoria, Canada: Trafford, 2005), 8.
• Died at Camp Rucker, Alabama from sun stroke
• Interned at Lynnhurst Cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee
  • https://etvma.org/veterans/philip-francis-9630/

Philip Francis (November 11, 1916 – June 17, 1943) was born in Whitley County, Kentucky. He attended the University of Tennessee for Liberal Arts from 1934 to 1937. He continued to work in Knoxville as a lineman after attending the university. He enlisted out of Knoxville for the United States Army in World War II. He served as a Staff Sergeant in the 87th Chemical Mortar Battalion that was specially trained for using white phosphorous. SSGT Francis died at Camp Rucker, Alabama on June 17, 1943 from sun stroke during an intense speed marching exercise over a 12 mile stretch while packing 4.2 Inch mortars and supplies. He is interned at Lynnhurst Cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee.

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