Son of Salem and Asenathe Hufford Beery. Attended University of Colorado. Member Student Army Training Corps. According to Beery's commanding officer, "The courage with which he faced death is even more deserving, in my opinion, of a Medal of Honor than many of those who win them on the field of battle. I have said to the doctors here and I say to you that if I can have the same gentle patience and trust displayed by Walter, I shall be most grateful. I am grateful to have had me such a splendid, loyal, courageous soldier."