John Allen Bobo was born May 10, 1896, to James E. and Lulu Bobo, in Bonanza, Sebastian County, Arkansas, the second oldest child of five. Bob served in World War I, became Sergeant and led Company E of the 16th Infantry Regiment, United States Army. Sgt. Bobo was well-known for his act of heroism and extraordinary leadership. On July 18-19, 1918, in Soissons, France, Bobo led his company deep into dangerous enemy territory; he personally took out a machine gun nest and commandeered the gun. Later in action he led two squads, successfully completing his operation by capturing two officers, 125 men, and twelve machine guns. Bobo was killed in action on July 18, 1918, at Chateau Theirry, shortly after his heroic mission. He was posthumously awarded The Distinguished Service Cross & The Victory Medal by the United States Army.

Bobo was buried in the Mountain View Cemetery in Bonanza. The funeral was recorded as one of the largest funeral services ever held in the town.