
Paul Washington Alexander was born on January 16, 1889 in Norfolk, Virginia to Alice Ward and Washington Alexander. Paul Alexander received up to a 7th grade education. Before the war began Alexander’s occupation was a longshoreman and he lived at 739 St. Paul Street, Norfolk, VA.
Paul Alexander enlisted in the Army as a private in the infantry on June 20, 1918 to C Co. 304 Engineers regiment and went to train at Camp Alexander, Newport News, VA. He was promoted to Private 1st class on August 14,1918. Alexander did not experience any tours oversea or receive any action.
After being discharged from service on May 19, 1919 at Camp Lee, he return to Norfolk, VA. Before being discharged from service, Paul and his wife Louisa Bridges had their first son Leon W. Alexander, on February 18, 1919. He returned to his job as a longshoreman stationed out of Norfolk Naval base. Paul Alexander believed we must be ready at all times in order to have peace.
On September 11, 1948 Paul remarried to Olivia Viola Scaife in North Carolina. Paul Washington passed away on June 16, 1951 at the age of 62 and was buried in Calvary Cemetery, Norfolk, VA.
Sources:
North Carolina, Marriage Records, 1741-2011
“Paul W. Alexander,” U.S., Headstone Applications for Military Veterans, 1925-1963, National Archives and Records Administration.
“Paul Washington Alexander,” Virginia, Death Records, 1912-2014.
“Paul Washington Alexander,” World War I History Commission Questionnaires, Library of Virginia.
United States Census, 1900-1940.