In April, 1918, Frederik Ek, principal of our public schools,
tendered his resignation and enlisted for Y.M.C.A. service
overseas. We quote from The Independent-Register, April 24,
1918:
"Brodhead people can not fail to comprehend the sacrifice
Mr. Ek is making to render service to the nation and the
world. While we regret to lose him from our midst, we know
that he has followed his heart's desire to help in the great
conflict."
Mr. Ek left at the close of school and was sent to Columbia
University, N.Y., for a few weeks' training. He enlisted for
Transport Service, so began his work immediately upon going
on board ship. After reporting in Paris, Mr. Ek was sent at once
into active duty with troops in service. He was with the 101st
Engineers under shell fire when he was wounded, his right arm
being broken by a piece of shell. Interesting details of Mr.
Ek's work among the boys are told in his letter, in another
part of this volume.