TSGT William Thomas Lemon

TSGT William Thomas Lemon was born 12 Oct 1918 in Purcellville, Virginia to Walter Henry and Frances Newton (Pelton) Lemon.  His father worked as farm labor and as a carpenter.

William was working as a plumber or steamfitter when he was drafted in May 1941.  He was likely assigned to C Company 116th Infantry soon after and trained with the unit at Camp Blanding and in England. TSGT Lemon was serving as a platoon sergeant on 6 Jun 1944, D-Day, when the unit participated in the amphibious landing that began the invasion of Hitler's "fortress Europe" in France.  He survived that day but was killed in action on 17 Jun 1944.

TSGT Lemon was awarded the Silver Star for his actions on the date of his death. The citation reads:

In Normandy, France, on June 17, 1944, while his unit was advancing, he, with utter disregard for his own safety, led his platoon over a hedgerow in order to keep the attack moving forward.

In so doing, he continually exposed himself to enemy fire and it was through his efforts that the platoon was inspired to continue the advance and capture the objective. Though he was killed in this action, the courage and leadership displayed by him reflect great credit upon himself and the military service."

TSGT Lemon was buried in Normany American Cemetery.