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.
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
Couple Rescues Prairie Dog From Their Dog's Mouth, Then Decides To Adopt It
Hungry Elephant Casually Walks Into Grocery Store For Snacks In Thailand
Wild Orcas Keep Giving Humans Gifts, Leaving Experts Puzzled
My Girlfriend Gifted Me My Father’s Handwriting To Keep Forever
We Can’t Stop Looking At These Adorable Baby Loon Photos Taken On A Lake
The Funniest Dog Reactions To Hearing 'Walk' — You’ll Be Laughing Out Loud
'Am I Allowed To Be This Happy?' The Moment A Nervous Foster Dog Finally Lies In A Dog Bed
Grandma Thinks She's 60. Her Reaction To Learning She's 90 Is Priceless
Chicken Or Pigeon? The Internet Can’t Believe This Bird Is Real
Autistic Son Says 'Bye Daddy' And Leaves Mom And Dad In Tears