Marion Earl Duncan was born 6 March 1921, the son of Marion Porter Duncan and Callie Kelly.
He died 3 February 1945.
Buried at Butler Cemetery near Oliver Springs, TN.
Private First Class
141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, Company G
The Knoxville Journal, February 28, 1945:
Pfc. Earl Duncan of LaFollette and husband of Mrs. Virginia Duncan of Oak Ridge, was killed in action Feb. 3 in France, according to War Department notification received by his widow. In addition to Mrs. Duncan, Private Duncan is survived by his father, Pat Duncan of Fonde, Ky.; two sisters, Lucille of Rockwood and Mabel of Clinton. Two brothers, Mitchell and Arnold, are serving overseas.
The Three States, August 30, 1945
The manner of death in action of his brother, Pfc. Marion Earl Duncan in eastern France Feb. 3 this year, is described in a letter to Pfc. Mitchell Duncan by chaplain of his outfit as follows: In answer to your letter asking information about your brother, Pfc. Marion Earl Duncan 34924656, I have secured the following information: On Feb. 3, 1945, your brother was performing his duties with Co. K, 141st Inft. which was part of a force attacking an important town in Eastern France. The enemy allowed this force to come within close range before opening fire upon it. When the enemy did open fire the force was unable to advance and was ordered to withdraw. Your brother was one of several men who volunteered to stay and deliver fire upon the enemy in order to divert attention from the withdrawing forces. While engaged in this action he was killed by enemy small arms fire. His death occurred almost instantly, so that I am sure he suffered little or any pain.
It is not difficult to understand the feelings of those who have lost a brother when you have seen so many friend to. I know there is nothing but the comfort that comes from God that can ease the sense of emptiness. I hope this information will not only answer the questions which you had but will help to set your mind to ease.
Sincerey yours, Thomas H. Harvey, Chaplain U.S. Army
- Rank: Private First Class
- Date of birth: 6 March 1921
- Date of death: 3 February 1945
- County: Campbell
- Hometown: LaFollette
- Service Branch: Army/Army Air Forces
- Division/Assignment: 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division
- Theater: Europe
- Conflict: World War II
- Awards: Purple Heart
- Burial/Memorial Location: Butler Cemetery, Norwood, Anderson County, Tennessee
- Location In Memorial: Pillar VII, Middle Panel
- Sponsored by: Marion M. Duncan, nephew
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