“Herbie” Nichols (1919-1963) grew up in Harlem, New York. He attended the City College of New York and was inducted into the U.S. Army in September 1941 during the peacetime draft. He served in the 24th Infantry Band until he was honorably discharged on August 24, 1943. Nichols is best known for his contributions to American jazz and spent the rest of his life playing piano and composing music, amassing a catalogue of about 170 songs. Among the most famous of his compositions was “Lady Sings the Blues,” famously performed by Billie Holiday. Sadly, Nichols died of leukemia at age 44.

Herbert “Herbie” Horatio Nichols (World War II) is a Notable burial at https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/longisland.asp. 

Though somewhat overlooked in his era, Nichols was an influential American jazz pianist and composer born in San Juan Hill, Manhattan in 1919. He attended City College of New York and was drafted into the Army in 1941. He served in the 24th Infantry Regiment Band until 1943. He composed around 170 songs, among the most famous is the jazz standard, “Lady Sings the Blues.” Billie Holiday wrote the lyrics and sang this song. Nichols died of leukemia in 1963. 

*The preceding content is not intended as a comprehensive biography, but it highlights their significance as a result of military or civilian distinction, lasting achievements, or association with impactful national events. 

Long Island National Cemetery

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HERBERT HORATIO NICHOLS

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