Ragland, William Clyde

Headstone of William C Ragland

NPS Photo/B.Hayes

Quick Facts

Significance:

18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division ("Big Red One")

Place of Birth:

Smith County, Tennessee

Date of Birth:

November 21, 1918

Place of Death:

Germany

Date of Death:

March 24, 1945

Place of Burial:

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Cemetery Name:

Stones River National Cemetery

William Clyde Ragland was born on November 21, 1918, in Smith County, Tennessee, and later lived in Wilson County. Before his military service, he worked as a farmhand, contributing to the agricultural life of his community.

Ragland was drafted into the United States Army during World War II and served as a Private First Class in the 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, a unit known for its critical role in some of the war’s most intense campaigns. He was killed in action on March 24, 1945, likely in Germany, while fighting to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation. For his sacrifice, Ragland was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

He is laid to rest at Stones River National Cemetery in Plot P-6264, where his grave honors his courage and dedication in service to his country.