Memorial

More information

S/Sgt Raymond M. Parker attended high school for three years and was a machinist before he joined the National Guard in Hopewell, Virginia on 3 February 1941.

He was killed by artillery shell fragments in his stomach and fingers.

He was first buried at the Temporary American Military Cemetery in Limey, France.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The citation cited: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 September in France. On that date, Sgt Parker, an assistant squad leader, crossed the Moselle River, near Frolois, France, and became cut-off from his unit. Despite enemy action, he courageously organized two machine-gun squads from other men and ordered fire upon the enemy. When casualties were created in his newly-formed squads, he manned out of the guns himself until his ammunition was exhausted. After becoming a prisoner, he managed to elude his captors and escape. Sgt Parker's aggressive 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 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Note that the date, mentioned in the citation, is wrong.

He was also awarded the Silver Star posthumously. This citation cited: For gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.