Cimarron Kansas Network

Memorial Day

Raymond D. Hoyt
Staff SGT 137th INF 35th DIV
May 12, 1910 - July 17, 1944

Staff SGT Raymond Hoyt Headstone

Raymond D. Hoyt, was born May 12, 1910, in Cimarron, Kansas, to parents Herbert Hoyt and Bessie (Gridwell) Hoyt. Raymond came from a family of seven, having two brothers and one sister. He attended Cimarron High School and played football for four years being the captain of the team his senior year. He graduated with the Class of 1929. He was killed in action in France at the age of 34.  (If anyone can help, we need pictures of Raymond.  Thanks)

STF SGT Raymond D. Hoyt was a member of the 137th Inf, 35th Div of the U.S. Army. In November 1944, the 137th Infantry Regiment of the 35th Infantry Division was actively engaged in operations across France, contributing significantly to the Allied advance during World War II. While comprehensive day-by-day records for the entire month are limited, available sources provide insights into key movements and engagements during this period.

On November 18, the 137th Infantry Regiment launched an attack with its 3rd and 1st Battalions leading the advance. The 3rd Battalion, positioned on the left, and the 1st Battalion, on the right, progressed against light resistance, successfully reaching and securing objectives near Bertring, France.

In November 1944, the 137th Infantry Regiment of the 35th Infantry Division was actively engaged in operations across France, contributing significantly to the Allied advance during World War II. While comprehensive day-by-day records for the entire month are limited, available sources provide insights into key movements and engagements during this period.

On November 18, the 137th Infantry Regiment launched an attack with its 3rd and 1st Battalions leading the advance. The 3rd Battalion, positioned on the left, and the 1st Battalion, on the right, progressed against light resistance, successfully reaching and securing objectives near Bertring, France.

A VERY BRIEF HISTORY OF THE 137th Infantry Regiment – 35 Infantry Division

The 137th Infantry Regiment, part of the 35th Infantry Division, played a significant role in the European Theater during World War II. Mobilized on December 23, 1940, the regiment trained extensively in the United States before deploying to England in May 1944 to prepare for the invasion of Western Europe.

Normandy Campaign:
The regiment landed on Omaha Beach between July 5 and 7, 1944. By July 11, they entered combat, engaging in the challenging hedgerow battles characteristic of the Normandy region. The 137th played a pivotal role in the capture of Saint-Lô, a strategic objective due to its vital road network.

Advance Across France:
Following the breakout from Normandy, the 137th Infantry advanced rapidly through France. They participated in the liberation of Orléans on August 16, 1944, a significant milestone in the Allied push toward Paris. Continuing their advance, the regiment reached Nancy by mid-September, securing vital crossings over the Moselle River and facilitating further Allied operations in the region.

Battle of the Bulge and Beyond:
In December 1944, during the German Ardennes Offensive (Battle of the Bulge), the 137th Infantry was deployed to Belgium. They were instrumental in relieving the besieged town of Bastogne and repelling German forces, contributing significantly to the eventual failure of the enemy offensive. Following this, the regiment crossed into Germany, advancing through the Rhineland and into central Germany, culminating in their occupation duties in Hanover by April 1945.

Throughout their European campaign, the 137th Infantry Regiment demonstrated resilience and valor, earning commendations for their contributions to the Allied victory in Europe.