Frank M. Hume

Brigadier General Frank M. Hume (January 7, 1867 – June 6, 1939) was the commanding officer of the 103rd Infantry, 26th Division during World War I. Hume was involved in the Spanish–American War and World War I. He earned the Army Distinguished Service Medal for his service, as well as the Croix de Guerre.

Early life Frank Merton Hume was born on January 7, 1867, to Bedford and Mary Kidder Hume. He had an older sister, Helen Hester (1864–?), and a younger brother, Charles Guy (1872–?). Although he was born in Bridgewater, Maine, he spent most of his life in Houlton, Maine. From a young age, Hume had the instincts of a soldier, and enjoyed banding his friends together to create their own "army." He spent most of his time studying history and battles. This setback did not stop him however. Hume attended Riverview Military Academy in Poughkeepsie, New York, and completed his education at Harvard University.

From November 19, 1897, to June 20, 1914, he worked as a postmaster.

Military career Hume served in the National Guard, and was commissioned in the 2nd Maine Infantry on April 2, 1894.

After he finished school, Hume returned to Bridgewater and formed his own army. He was able to secure recognition from the state of Maine. The outfit was designated Company L, National Guard of the State of Maine. He continued to gradually earn promotions throughout his service with the Maine militia.

Hume enlisted in the 2nd Maine Infantry for the Spanish–American War. He also earned the Distinguished Service Medal for "exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services while in command of the 103rd Infantry, during the St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne operations."

Three days before the armistice, Colonel Hume and Colonel Edward L. Logan were removed from their positions. He was later reinstated on February 4, 1919. It was speculated that the Regular Army officers were trying to get rid of any National Guard officers so that the "regulars may get the glory and lead the boys back home".

Post-war In November 1920, Hume was appointed treasurer of Aroostook county. He remained in this position till January 1927. On March 1, 1927, he was sworn in as the new collector of customs. On February 5, 1931, Hume was reappointed to the office of Collector of Customs and remained in the position till June 1933.

In 1923, Hume became a candidate for the Republican nomination for United States Senator, but later withdrew from the race.

Personal life Hume married Harriette L. Ebbett