Peru, Illinois

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Ladies sitting in chairs in a dress shop

World War II

In the 1930s, people in Peru most likely watched anxiously as war erupted around the world. Many in the city still had relatives living in areas impacted by the conflict, particularly in Europe. Then on 7 December 1941, the Japanese Empire bombed Pearl Harbor. The next day the U.S. declared war on Japan. A few days later on 11 December 1941, the U.S. declared war on Germany, a few hours after Germany declared war on the U.S.

While many from Peru served in World War II, 40 did not return. Below, you can read the stories of the brave men and women who lost their lives serving their country during the war.