Inscription
First American killed in action, World War I. Born Beech Grove, 1893, moved to Indiana, 1901, and enlisted there, 1914. Served under Gen. Pershing on Mexican border, 1916. Sent overseas June 14, 1917. Pfc. Gresham killed, Nov. 3, 1917, in the battle of Sommerviller, Lorraine. French honored him with monument there. Buried in Indiana. Silver Star citation, Jan. 1920.
Installed June 24, 1964.
For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: James Bethel Gresham
Location
Sources
More markers in McLean
Charles Hansford
Old Calhoun-Owensboro Rd., KY
A privateer in Virginia's Navy during the American Revolution, Hansford sailed off eastern coast of U.S., West Indies, and Spain.
William Worthington (1761-1848)
Island, KY
This early settler owned large tract of "Island" territory, cut off during times of high water.
Rumsey
Founded in 1834. Named for James Rumsey, steam navigation pioneer, at request of his nephew Edward Rumsey, US Congressman from this area,...
Corp. James Bethel Gresham Memorial Bridge
KY 81, KY
Erected, 1928, honoring the first American killed in action in World War I on Nov. 3, 1917, at Battle of Sommerviller.
County Named
Calhoun, KY
For Judge Alney McLean, lawyer and politician.
