Sylvester Holmes was born on January 26, 1923. He was the son of Richard and Gertrude Holmes.  He attended school at West Yaphank for 8 years and later attended Port Jefferson High School. Before entering the service he was working as an electrician. Holmes entered the Army in Jan., 1944. With the rank of Corporal and served with the 143 M,.M, Ordinance Company. Holmes left the United States on March 29, 1945 and arrived at New Guinea. From New Guinea he was sent to the Philippine Islands and then to Japan as part of occupation forces Holmes was sent to Fort Dix where he was discharged on Feb. 18, 1946.