Hometown Boys from Arizona: Information and Statistics about WWI Service Members

Arizona provided 10,500 young men to the U.S. armed forces during World War I. More than 70 Arizonans are buried or memorialized in ABMC cemeteries overseas. The 40th Division (National Guard) drew units and fillers from Arizona. Draftees from Arizona provided much of the original manpower of the 89th Division. The 89th Division fought in the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne Campaigns, overcoming particularly stubborn resistance when storming the Heights of Barricourt.

Arizonans fought at sea and in the air as well. Lt. Frank Luke, born in Phoenix, was a fighter ace with the 27th Aero Squadron who became the first airman to receive the Medal of Honor. He was killed during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, and is buried at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery. Arizonans planted victory gardens and participated in war bond drives. Arizona’s mineral wealth contributed to the war effort, although newly admitted Arizona was in many ways still on the American Frontier. Indeed, continuing strife pitted U.S. soldiers against outlaws, smugglers and Mexican revolutionaries – most notably with the Battle of Ambos Nogales in August 1918.

Editor's Note: This ongoing series will feature information and statistics about World War I service members from every state. You can also find this information in our new Chateau-Thierry Visitor Center that will be opening later this year.