GUILFORD — Sgt. Paul Maynard, a 21-year-old from Torrington, CT, endured gas poisoning and weeks on the frontlines of WWI. On Nov. 4, 1918, he wrote to his mother, “If I keep having good luck, I guess we’ll see each other before a great while.” Tragically, he was killed on Nov. 11, 1918, the war’s last day. Over Memorial Day weekend, his sacrifice was commemorated with a Purple Heart on the Guilford town green.

“He died on the last day of the war… doing his job and defending our democracy,” said U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal during the medal presentation. Blumenthal emphasized that Maynard’s death was a “patriotic and heroic death.”

Paul Maynard’s recognition was the culmination of years of research by his grandnephew, Rick Maynard, former director of Guilford’s parks and recreation. With help from Christine Pittsley of the Connecticut State Library, Rick pinpointed the location of his granduncle’s death. Paul Maynard is interred at Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery in France, having served with Connecticut’s 102nd Infantry, 26th “Yankee Division.”

Rick Maynard recalled discovering his granduncle’s story from a 1964 “Look” magazine and later finding letters that provided deeper insights into Paul Maynard’s life and character. “I started reading those letters and said, ‘Oh my goodness, this is amazing,’” he said. Maynard shared excerpts from these letters during the ceremony, highlighting Paul’s innocence, dedication, and patriotism. Despite the war’s horrors, Paul remained committed to his duty, his faith, and his family, sending money home and reassuring his parents of his well-being.

Paul Maynard’s bravery was evident even after being gassed, as he expressed guilt for being in the hospital instead of with his men. His grandnephew narrated how Paul faced the relentless barrage of shells during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, the deadliest campaign in American history. Paul’s letters described the relief of moments away from the frontlines and his longing for the war’s end.

The family’s long wait for news of Paul’s fate ended months after the armistice, highlighting the emotional toll of uncertainty. Now Paul Maynard’s valor and sacrifice are finally honored with the Purple Heart. His legacy endures, ensuring he is remembered not just as a soldier but as a hero who gave his all for his country.