Enlistment Date: July 11, 1898
Release Date: October 26, 1898
Unit: 17th Regiment of the Army, Company I
John Jelley was born around 1875 and lived in Derry, Pennsylvania. He served as a private in the 17th regiment of the U.S. Army, Company I. His regiment saw significant combat in the Caribbean, fighting in the battles of El Caney and Santiago. The battle of El Caney was staged on the right flank of San Juan Hill. Historians note that the battle was of little value and resulted in unnecessary casualties.
He married after the war. He and his wife, Margret, had a dairy farm in Derry. They had five children, with one son serving in World War II. John Jelley died on May 22, 1953.
(Compiled by Raymond Aguiar)
