The Zwolle community will gather on May 27th, 2024, to unveil a Louisiana Historical Marker permanently etching the memory of the Torres Brothers into local history. The ceremony, held at the St. Joseph Catholic Church Cemetery and Church Hall (307 Hammond Street, Zwolle, LA) at 10 a.m., honors the courage and sacrifice of Willie Lee, John B., Hosie Louis, and Ernest R. Torres, all sons of Hosie and Josephine (Longoria) Torres.
The Torres Brothers exemplified the unwavering spirit of “The Greatest Generation.” Tragically, Willie Lee, John B., and Hosie Louis all made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II, becoming the first group of three brothers lost to one family in the State of Louisiana during World War II. T/5 Willie Lee Torres, born on November 28, 1917, in Zwolle, served valiantly for 39 months, with 25 of those months spent overseas. He was tragically killed in action on July 25, 1945, on Luzon Island, Philippines, while serving with the 161st AAA Gun Battalion.
Pfc. John Baptist Torres, born on December 6, 1922, in Slagle, served for 34 months, with 14 months spent overseas. He was fatally wounded in Germany on July 29, 1945, and died on October 11, 1945, in Santa Maria, Azores Islands. John was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star for his gallantry in action.
Cpl. Hosie Louis Torres, born on January 25, 1925, in Leesville, served for 28 months, with 18 months spent overseas. He was killed in action on July 12, 1945, on Luzon Island while serving with the 20th Infantry Regiment.
Cpl. Ernest Rufus Torres, born on January 16, 1920, in Zwolle, served for five years during WWII. Despite being severely injured in a truck accident in England, he recovered and continued to serve his community. Ernest passed away on September 22, 1986, in Shreveport. His story gained renewed attention in 2013 when his WWII dog tag was discovered in Sutton Veny, England, and returned to the family.
The unveiling ceremony is made possible through the generous support of the Zwolle-Ebarb VFW, Disabled American Veterans, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and Natives of Zwolle & Ebarb Historical & Genealogical Society. These organizations recognize the importance of preserving the memory of the Torres Brothers and honoring their contributions to our nation’s history.
Dr. Cody Bruce will provide the official reading of the marker and discuss how this project developed, underscoring the significance of preserving the Torres Brothers’ legacy for future generations. It is with great honor that the nephew of the Torres brothers, SMSgt Joe LaRoue, USAF Retired, will speak at the event, reflecting on his uncles’ bravery and sacrifice.
Join us as we come together to honor the Torres Brothers and ensure that their bravery and sacrifice are never forgotten. Let us pay tribute to these local heroes who gave their all for the freedoms we cherish today.