The first recorded death at Camp McQuaide, near Watsonville, California, was of a local youth.

Richard P. Kirby was born in Watsonville to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kirby on November 22, 1922. Included in the Kirby family with Richard were sons Raymond, John and Edwin and daughter Loretta. Richard attended Moreland Notre Dame academy and became active in the Boy Scouts. He later enrolled in Watsonville High School and maintained a newspaper delivery route after school.

In July 1940, while still a student, Richard enlisted in the 250th Coast Artillery National Guard and was federally mobilized with that unit in September. Kirby was forced to leave school, but made plans to return after his tour of duty. Private Kirby was assigned to Battery D at nearby Camp McQuaide and served with that unit guarding Monterey bay for nine months.

On July 7 Kirby began experiencing a lower stomach pain that was diagnosed as appendicitis. An emergency appen- dectomy was performed; however, complications set in and attempts to save him failed. On July 18, 1941, Richard P. Kirby died at the station hospital.

Following a funeral at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Watsonville, Private Richard Kirby was given a full military honor funeral and was buried in the Watsonville Catholic Cemetery.

(WRP July 18, 1941 1:3; CDR)