Here is a photo of Francis “Frank” C. Riley (b. 1915 – d. 2004) in his U.S. Army uniform. This World War II picture appears to have been taken during training camp. Frank went on to be stationed in England for a time. Then he saw action on the European Continent.
Typical “Uncle Francis”, just look at the sharp crease in his uniform pants!
Recently, I rediscovered an old letter sent to my father (‘PJ” – Patrick J. Riley) from “Uncle Bill.” It was sent during World War II when Bill was serving in the Army somewhere in France. Although there is no year posted in the letter, the day of its composition reads, “July 26 In France”. I am not going to post all three pages of the letter, because it would take up too much space, but I will type out some tidbits.
In the letter Bill wrote, “had me a birthday the other day, (July 24) my third in the khakis.” He thoughtfully inquired as to the well-being of various pals and fellows of his, and he let us know that his brother Francis and nephew Russell Mulligan, had both received Army promotions. Bill made mention of “Casey”, (Uncle Fred to us) who at that time had been in the South (Pacific) and had “been banging around down there for quite a while.”
There is a reference to some packages that “Ma” had sent him, and he also asked his brother “PJ” how Barbara, Joan and Bill and Jim were doing.
He signed off his letter with the following: “Well it seems strange to think of being here in France. I wish I could relate some of the things I’ve witnessed, it’s history in a hurry, but it will have to wait.”
What a gathering! The wedding of Walter Francis Xaiver Mulligan and Margaret Ernestine Riley on September 6, 1937 celebrated at 19 Pond Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
The photo setting was in front of the garage in the back yard.
Some of the faces: (right to left) front row Kathleen Agnes Riley Mulligan is at the edge of the picture; Marion R Riley in the dark dress next the bride, Margaret E Riley Mulligan; just behind Marion’s left shoulder is Marguetta Greenhalgh Riley (mother of the bride); Gertrude C. Riley is between he bride. There are four men standing up against the garage door. Patrick J Riley is on the left and his brother, Francis C Riley is the man in the dark suit.
19 Pond Street 