Delanco Military Veterans Honor Roll

A Project of the Delanco History Board

Home  About  Nominate

Civil WarWWIWWIIKoreaVietnamIraq IIraq IIAfghanistan



Name Narrative Branch and Rank Unit and Specialty Conflict/Arena Born/Died
Elmer W. Graham Elmer W. Graham was born to William Graham of Carroll Street in Riverside. Elmer became engaged to Edna Lillian Frech of Delran. He enlisted in the US Army in lieu of his brother, John. He served in the 2nd Armored Division in North Africa during WWII, attaining the rank of Corporal. During a battle against Rommel's Panzer Division, Elmer's tank was hit and he was later captured by the Germans hiding in a barn. He was taken prisoner and held captive in Germany for two and a half years. He attempted to escape three times, but was recaptured each time and subjected to harsh mistreatment by the Germans. He recalls gaining his freedom through the famous Brandenberg Gate. After the war, he married Edna and soon settled at 1100 Burlington Ave in Delanco. They had four children. Elmer worked for Public Service Bus Co. in Riverside until his retirement. He drove excursions to New York City. He was a devout Catholic and attended St. Peter's RC Church in Riverside. He also coached basketball at St. Peter's school. He died at age 56 due to the mistreatment of his German captivity. Elmer's name does not appear on Delanco's original WWII Honor Roll. Branch? Rank? Unit? WWII ?

Updated October 30, 2023