Howard D. (Duke) Lyford was born January 19th, 1896 in Martinez, California, where he remained a life-long resident. He joined the United States Army on June 2nd, 1917 and served through 1919 in the United States and Europe. After his discharge he returned to Martinez and was employed for 55 years as business manager for the Contra Costa gazette. He was the husband of Verna Lyford and the father of Marjorie Jane Lasiter, who preceded him in death. He was a Commander of an American Legion post; a Master and treasurer of the Martinez Lodge No. 41 F & A.M., and a member of the Oakland Scottish Rite Order. In addition, he was a life member of the International Typographers Union. He died on August 22nd, 1985.
From the description of World War I letters, 1917-1919. (California State Library). WorldCat record id: 58951692
