Gold Star Veterans

Fred F. B. Penninger

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Coming under attack after landing on the beach at Namur Island, he flung several grenades into a Japanese blockhouse before he was hit in the temple by sniper fire. Although badly wounded, he continued to lead his squad. In a news article dated 2-20-1944, it was reported that a fellow Marine referred to him as the bravest man he ever saw. A memorial service was held on 5/9/46 at Thomasboro Presbyterian Church.

Age at Death: 23

Image Source: Charlotte Observr 2-20-44

George Pitts

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Killed on Peleliu Island in the central Pacific. Memorial service at Spencer Memorial Methodist Church on Jan 7, 1945. Memorial marker at Ft. McKinley, Manila, PI.

Age at Death: 22

Image Source: The Charlotte Observer 1-3-1945

James Pritchard

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: With his unit under heavy attack, he advanced and was able to locate the position of the enemy. He was mortally wounded, but made it back to his unit with the information that allowed them to knock out the post.

Age at Death: 30

Image Source: CO 10-12-45

Archie Rich

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Memorial marker at Lorraine, France.

Age at Death: Unavailable

Image Source: Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

Benjamin Morrow

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Died while in the service. Memorial marker at Fort McKinley, Manila, PI.

Age at Death: Unavailable

Image Source: The Charlotte Observer 5-27-1944

Elton Nichols

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Missing in action over Germany since March 3.

Age at Death: 20

Image Source: newsprint photo

Jimmie Overcash, Jr.

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: His plane was hit by anti-aircraft flak, burst into flames and went into a dive near Sottevast, France while on his 31st mission. His list of each missions is included in his file. His crew made the first daylight raid on Berlin. Memorial marker in Normandy, France.

Age at Death: 20

Image Source: Carolina Room photo

James Morton

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Killed in action.

Age at Death: Unavailable

Image Source: Davidson College publication

William Nicholson, Jr.

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Killed when the plane he was piloting crashed and exploded near Lillington.

Age at Death: Unavailable

Image Source: Davidson College Bulletin

Booker Owens

Death Details/Burial/Memorial Services: Died non-battle.

Age at Death: Unavailable

Image Source: Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

You are here