Honoring Service: Veteran Martin Francis Kirby, WW I
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Martin Francis Kirby was born in Rye to James Kirby and Margaret Ford on September 17, 1895. He was one of four boys (brothers Thomas, James, and John) and had five sisters (Johanna, Margaret, Katherine, Elizabeth and Anna). The family resided at 42 Davis Street and regularly attended the Church of the Resurrection.
Date of Birth: 9/17/1895
Died On: 12/12/1969 (age 74)
Street Address: 42 Davis Street
Service Number: unknown
Branch of Service: U.S. Army-WWI
Martin served overseas in France for just under one year. He was part of the 805th Aero Squadron from June 15, 1918 through June 12, 1919. Aero Squadrons were US Army aviation units involved with flying, training, construction, ground support, and more for the Air Service. Many Aero Squadrons were demobilized after World War I, meaning Mr. Kirby was a part of one of the last ones in American history.
Martin grew up in Rye and attended Rye schools growing up. He was a superintendent on the Kennelly Estate in the town for 24 years, and a founder of the Rye American Legion Post 128. Additionally, Martin was a member of Gateway Barracks 785 in Greenwich.
Martin Kirby died on December 12, 1969, at the age of 74. He was surrounded by his three sisters, several nieces and nephews, and others. His requiem mass was held six days later at a place he frequented, the Church of the Resurrection. He was known for having an adventurous spirit and a peculiar flair for life during his 74 years on Earth. More on Kirby.
