Robert enlisted in the Army at Camp Dodge, Herrold, IA on 17 July 1943 and eventually was assigned to Company I, 508th PIR.

Pvt Laird was appointed to the grade of Pfc on 15 January 1945.  On 1 February he was listed as slightly injured in action in Belgium, perhaps due to frostbite, and was evacuated to a field hospital.  On 10 May 45 he was transferred to another hospital and did not return to the regiment.

  On 5 July 1948 Robert was able to apply to the State of Iowa for WWII Veterans Compensation in recognition of his service.  His compensation was calculated as $10 each for 32 months of service ($320) plus $47.50 $2.50 extra for each for his 19 months spent overseas ($47.50) totaling $367.50, which in 1948 was a good chunk of change!  It is the equivalent, based on inflation, o $3,687.75 today.