War and the Eyes of an Artist
Sharing the story and art of P.F.C. Robert F. Glaubke’s Marine Corps experience in World War II – South Pacific
Welcome
Our father was an artist and – until his passing in 1981 – we grew up with the awareness of his heroism in World War II. Although he never spoke of actual combat, we knew that his experience of fighting in three battles was horrific. His Purple Heart award, and numerous scars, were proof of his pain, both physically and mentally. We rediscovered his wartime artwork in Mom’s attic among hundreds of paintings and sketches from decades as a book illustrator. He was not an official Combat Artist, but he documented his experiences with watercolors, pencils, and pen and ink. Along with historical research, artifacts and family knowledge, we reconstructed his story. We feel that it should be presented as a reminder of just one patriot’s sacrifice for our freedom.
– The Glaubke Family
Exciting News!
In February 2025, six thoughtful people from Richmond, Virginia, alerted us to a remarkable discovery—a portfolio of our father’s World War II artwork that had surfaced in an estate auction. This collection, featuring 21 watercolors and sketches, was an invaluable part of his legacy. Thanks to the generosity of our friends, we successfully placed the highest bid, securing the artwork and ensuring it could be preserved and shared.
Here are some watercolors from the newly discovered portfolio
Please Note: Our family is actively working to reclaim the original artwork of Robert F. Glaubke. This important effort will allow us to further honor and enrich his heroic South Pacific story. We are committed to sharing his legacy with the community and veterans’ groups. If you have any of his artwork or have come across his work, we would deeply appreciate your help. Please reach out to us with any information. Thank you for your support.
This is Bob's Story
Robert F. Glaubke
P.F.C., U.S.M.C.
4th Marine Division
Purple Heart Award
Presidential Unit Citation
Served in WWII, South Pacific:
Roi-Namur
Kwajalain Atoll
Saipan
Northern Mariana Islands
Tinian
Northern Mariana Islands
Son of a WWI Veteran
The son of a World War I veteran, Bob Glaubke, was a 19 year-old art student from Chicago when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. While in the South Pacific, he encountered numerous horrors, but found solace in sketching and painting his experiences as a combat artist.
Then, he lost his eyesight from exploded shrapnel as his regiment stormed a small Tinian beach. Miraculously, a stateside surgeon arrived and partially saved his vision hours before he was to have his eyes removed.
After recovering in New Caledonia, Bob returned home a hero. Living with a sight impairment, he became a prolific illustrator and teacher at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.
Learn More
See the 30-page flip book that illustrates Bob’s life and war experience.
If viewing on a mobile device, press and swipe left on the pages to turn them.
Experience the Legacy of Robert F. Glaubke – Through Art & Storytelling
1. Pop-Up Exhibition
Host a compelling presentation of Bob’s life and service at your community center, school, or organization. Our family will share his story in a gallery-style or lecture format, featuring his illustrations, photos, personal anecdotes, and artifacts—including his Purple Heart.
2. Original Artwork for Display
Bob’s original, framed paintings, illustrations, and sketches are available for temporary exhibitions or museum collections. Ideal for galleries, art institutions, and museums, his work offers a powerful visual narrative of his experiences.
For inquiries or to arrange an exhibit
Samples of original artwork currently in Bob’s South Pacific collection