John E. Asher served as a Staff Sergeant, 128th Infantry, 32nd Red Arrow Division during World War II.  The Elvins/Flat River native was killed in action on Luzon Island Aug. 15, 1945, the day the war ended. 

       He also served in the Philippines, Leyte and New Guinea.

          His medals are: Purple Heart, Oak Leaf Cluster, Combat Infantry Badge, Philippine Liberation Medal with a Gold Star and three Battle Stars.

{The Daily Journal, St. Francois Co., Wednesday, April 26, 1995}

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR
STAFF SGT. JOHN ELLIS ASHER SUNDAY

     A memorial service will be held for Staff Sgt. John Ellis Asher Sunday afternoon at the Assembly of God Church in Flat River at 2:30 o'clock.

     Rev. K. H. Lawson of Springfield, Mo., a former pastor, will deliver the memorial address assisted by the pastor, Rev. Powhattan Huffman. Rev. Lawson performed the wedding ceremony for Sgt. Asher and his wife, the former Miss Mamie Elders. They have a two year old daughter, Judy.

     The American Legion will attend the service in a body. Sgt. Asher's father, Luther Asher of Elvins Route One is a member of the Legion.

     Sgt. Asher was killed in action on Luzon August 15, 1945. He was with the 32nd Infantry Division. He has been overseas since May, 1944 and had been wounded twice, his last wound requiring four months hospitalization.

     He had received the Purple Heart, Oak Leaf Cluster, Infantryman's Combat Badge and the Philippine Liberation Medal.

Published by the LEAD BELT NEWS, Flat River, St. Francois Co. MO, Fri. Sept. 28, 1945.