Smith, John Thomas

Headstone of John Thomas Smith

NPS Photo/B.Hayes

Quick Facts

Significance:

United States Army

Place of Birth:

Monroe, Tennessee

Date of Birth:

May 6, 1924

Place of Death:

Unknown

Date of Death:

October 19, 1944

Place of Burial:

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Cemetery Name:

Stones River National Cemetery

John Thomas Smith was born on May 6, 1924, in Monroe County, Tennessee, and later lived in Wilder, Tennessee. Before entering military service, he worked for the Fentress Coal Company, contributing to the industrial workforce that supported the nation’s wartime economy.

During World War II, Smith served in the United States Army as a private. Like many young Tennesseans of his generation, he left civilian life to serve overseas as American forces fought to liberate Europe. On October 19, 1944, Smith was killed in action during combat operations. For his sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

John Thomas Smith is laid to rest at Stones River National Cemetery in Plot P-6258.