World War 1 Soldier Footlocker Returns To Family
By Rex Lyle • November 23, 2014
I found this WW1 footlocker at a local garage sale years ago. It was empty upon inspection at the sale and it sat in my garage. Only when I cleaned it up to use as a display piece in the house did I notice the writing of a soldier's name, Wayland Bliven.
It shows the following ever so faintly-
SHIP TO: 401 RANDOLPH ST EDGERTON, WIS CO M-128 INF NG USA
I was floored when I saw this and started a search for any family members, anywhere. I contacted the Wisconsin NG, spoke with Captain Brian Faltinson, and he found a Mr. Blivens, last known address in New Mexico long ago. Long shot finding family down the line but...SUCCESS!
After several months of searching for any living relatives, I located Mr. Blivens Niece and Grand Niece, living in Edgerton Wisconsin!
I made contact, they're receptive, something I was worried about, and my wife and I are waiting on them to talk with their families for further arrangements to transfer the locker.
I said to my wife and others, if I didn't find Mr. Blivens family, I would donate the locker to the Wisconsin Veterans Museum.
This is an emotional thing for me, not about money as I could've sold the locker, this is about the soldier and his extended family and doing the right thing.
PREVIOUS STORY NEXT STORY SHARE YOUR STORY
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
Breathtaking: Hilarious Realtor Video Edit By Gen Z Employee Goes Viral
Woman Discovers Common Food Ingredient As The Ultimate Mosquito Repellent
A Hilarious Dog Story Told In Four Photos
Florida Police Urge People To Stop Taking Selfies With Bears
Experience The Thrill Of Mountain Biking In The Dolomites - Without The Danger!
Tornado Disrupts Wedding, Sends Guests To Basement. They Turned It Into A Magical Night
Young Man's Act Of Kindness For Woman At Concert Makes Her Day
Young Boy's Clever Kitchen Drawer Prank Leaves Dad Questioning Reality
Every Time The Power Goes Out, He Takes His Generator To His Elderly Neighbor's House
Gorilla Melts Hearts With Sweet Gesture Towards Newborn Baby
Michael Jackson's 'Smooth Criminal' Comes To Life In Stunning Shadow Puppet Show