Surnames: Hilt, Peschke, Pinno, Leicktfuss

The Loyal Tribune 25 December 1941

Hilt, Fred A. (21 JUL 1916 - DEC 1941)

"The Navy Department deeply regrets to inform you that your son, Fred Albert Hilt, machinist mate, first class, U.S. Navy, was lost in action in the performance of his duty and in the service of his country. The department extends to you its sincerest sympathy in your great loss. To prevent possible aid to our enemies please do not divulge the name of his ship or station. If remains are recovered, they will be interred temporarily in the locality where death occurred, and you will be notified accordingly."

Thus read the message received by Mr. and Mrs. Leo Hilt informing them of the death of their son, Loyal’s first war casualty.

Fred Hilt was born in Wibaux County, Montana, July 21, 1916. When a boy of four years of age, he came to Wisconsin. The family located near Fond du Lac. Fred received his education in the country schools there and also attended high school in Ripon.

About eight years ago his parents and younger brothers and sisters moved to Clark County. He remained in the southern part of the state, where he had employment. In 1937 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and during his four years of service was stationed in various places on the West Coast and the Hawaiian Islands. Two years ago at the Christmas season he obtained a furlough and visited his parents and other relatives. His is the first death in the family of fifteen children.

He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Hilt. Who live on a farm east of the village; six sisters, Mrs. Jennie Peschke of Ripon, Mrs. Alma Pinno of Oakland, Mrs. Mable Leicktfuss and Doris Hilt of Oshkosh and Verna Hilt and Lillian Hilt, at home; also eight brothers, Pvt. Floyd hilt, Scott Field, Bellville, Ill., Harold of Eldorado, Walter of Ripon and Alvin, Leon, George, Lloyd and Elton at home.