83rd Division Booklet

Pfc. Robert J. Cole

Private First Class
Robert J. Cole

Private First Class Robert J. Cole

Robert Joseph Cole was born on January 26, 1926 in Traverse City, Michigan and raised there as the son of the late Dward D. (1892-1984) and Clarabell (Potrafka) Cole (1899-1938). Having lost his mother at very young age, Robert was brought up by his father. He married Cora Elenor Sheffer (1928-2010) on December 21, 1944 when he was 18 years old.

He lived in Traverse City when he enlisted the service. The After Action Reports from May 1945, listed him as recipient of the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action and disregard for personal safety displayed on April 6, 1945 in Germany. At that time, Company G was attacking over open and rolling terrain advancing through the town of Schwalenburg. Meeting resistance they then proceeded through the heavy woods on the East of Rischenau to assist Co. E in the capture of the town. At 0800 the motorized 2nd Platoon attacked and captured Kannade. In the afternoon the company rejoined Task Force Ritchie and moved to the town of Hohe against a few fanatical enemy, a distance of 54 kilometers. There they captured 2 and killed 7 Germans. During this drive the troops rarely got more than three hours sleep a night, sometime less. For his service he was awarded, among other decorations, the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Silver Star Medal.

After the war Robert Cole, together with his brother owned a business called Cole Brothers on 8th Street, in Traverse City, Michigan. The business was a John Deere dealership and was located where Brick Wheels is today. Robert Cole passed away on September 5, 1995 in Cedar, Michigan and is burried at the Solon Township Cemetery, Solon, Michigan. Robert was survived by his wife Cora (1928–2010).