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1st Lt Joseph W. Cambron graduated from Louisville High School and was assisttant manager at the Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company.

He enlisted at Fort Banjamin Harrison, Indiana on 30 December 1941. He was sent overseas on 9 April 1943.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The citation cited: For extraordinairy heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 18th Infantry regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 October 1944, in Germany. Seriously wounded by a shell fragment as he led his platoon across an open field during an advance upon a pillbox, 1st Lt Cambron dragged himself to a nearby shell crater to locate the source of the withering machine gun, automatic weapons and small arms fire which pinned his platoon to the ground. After crawling back to his squad leaders to issue necessary orders, when he was spotted by the enemy and again wounded. Despite intense pain, he remained staunch and directed effective fire upon the strongpoint to cover the withdrawal of his men. Observing a squad leader struck by a hail of bullets from the pillbox, 1st Lt Cambron, although twice wounded, dragged himself across a completely exposed sector to the aid of his wounded sergeant. Again the object of devastating enemy fire, 1st Lt Cambron was fatally wounded as he attempted to pull the sergeant to safety. First Lieutenant Cambron`s fearless leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.