PFC James Arthur Franklin's Obituary
PFC James Arthur Franklin of Breckenridge, Texas passed away on August 31, 1943 in Port Moresby, Territory of Papua due to multiple injuries from an aircraft mishap at the very young age of 21 while serving his country. He was born on October 5, 1922 to parents, Benjamin M. Franklin and Allie Ozell Wilson Franklin in Iowa Park, Texas. James weighed 15 pounds at his birth and his mom nicknamed him Big Boy. He had two little sisters who have now passed away, Billie Jo (Franklin) and Maydene (Franklin). He was always the best big brother, and would let his baby sisters tag along with him everywhere he went. James was a very kind and loving person, always helping others in need. James was a semiskilled chauffeur and driver of buses, taxis, trucks, and tractors. As a young Boy Scout, he always carried a good deed token (The Boy Scout Token) in his pocket and every time he’d do a good deed he’d switch pockets. This token was passed down to his niece, and judging from the amount of ware on it, there must have been many good deeds. He was also a member of the National Guard. James joined the US Army Air Force in January 2, 1942 as a PFC (Gunner). He is survived by niece, Janet Anderson; and great nephew, Dana Anderson Ford. From all the fond memories that were shared between the family about Big Boy, they can’t help but feel he lived and died doing what he loved, serving others. This makes his only niece especially proud to remember and honor his sacrifice. PFC James Arthur Franklin will now be coming home to his final resting place. A graveside service for PFC Franklin will be held at 9:00 am Saturday, May 26, 2018 at the DFW National Cemetery.
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