FRYEBURG — They were friends in school at Fryeburg Academy who later volunteered to serve in the “war to end all wars,” World War I. Tragically, the two friends were killed in action in the prime of their lives — hit by the same exploding artillery shell while fighting for the Allies in France 100 years ago today.

That is the sad story of two young men whose service and memory are being honored on the anniversary of their deaths with wreath-laying ceremonies at their graves in Fryeburg, Maine, on Saturday.

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Ralph W. Shirley

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Frank Shaw

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Ralph W. Shirley's name is listed at the top of the names shown on the East Conway World War I monument in East Conway. The star next to his name shows that he was killed in action. (TOM EASTMAN PHOTO)

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Ralph W. Shaw's name appears on the Fryeburg Veterans Honor Roll in Bradley Park. the star indicates that he was killed in action. (TOM EASTMAN PHOTO)

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