When John Franklin "Frank" Tipps and his twin sister Pleasant Ann were born on January 28, 1892, in Hill, Texas, their father, Reverend, was 48, and their mother, Sofronia, was 29. He had four brothers and five sisters. He was named for his paternal grandfather, John Franklin Tipps, of Franklin county, Tennessee.

Frank's military service began on 20 Nov 1911, when he enlisted in the Coast Artillery Corps, age 19. Frank was assigned to Ft. Baker in Sausalito, California, 61st company. While at Ft. Baker, he was a member of the basketball team and the Bugle Corps. After basic training, his company was deployed to the U.S. border with Mexico. He served his country for 3 years and received an honorable discharge.

On 1 Mar 1915, he enlisted in the Army. He was assigned to Co. C, 18th Infantry, stationed in Douglas, Arizona. He was a Military Policeman. In June, 1917, the United States entered the war with France fighting against German aggression. His company was moved to Hoboken, New Jersey, bound for overseas duty.

Frank was killed in action 33 days before the armistice was signed. He was wounded twice before he was killed. Each time, he asked to be returned to his company. He served 19 months in France. Frank was buried on the field of battle in Meuse, France. His remains were returned to the United States and reinterred on Wednesday, 17 Aug., 1921. He was given full military honors by the local American Legion Post #17.

Source of information: www.ancestry.com, www.findagrave.com