Memorial

More information

1st Lt Joe E. Carpenter graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1938 and was employed as an assistance county agent for Hancock County, Tennessee.

He was awarded the Silver Star Medal posthumously. The citation cited: On 4 January 1945, a strong force of enemy infantry attacked the left platoon of his company and forced it to withdraw. Lt Carpenter, realizing the seriousness of the situation, organized his command post personnel, and launched a counterattack which halted the enemy advance. He then personally regrouped the remainder of the left platoon while under heavy enemy fire and attacked with such force that he restored the original line. By securing the battalion flank, he released the reserve company to support other units. In a later action he was mortally wounded by enemy fire. His courage and inspiring leadership exemplify the highest standards of the military service.

He died of wounds. Medics tried to give him plasma, but due to the extreme cold, the plasma didn't flow.

He was first buried at Temporary American Military Cemetery Grand Failly, France.

Lt Carpenter is remembered at Susong Family Cemetery in Bridgeport, Cocke County, Tennessee with a memorial marker.