Briefing Document: The Life and Military Service of Captain Jerry Howard Lewis

Introduction:

This document provides a detailed overview of the life and military service of Jerry Howard Lewis, based on the provided text. It outlines his early life, military enlistment, training, and ultimately, his death in combat during World War II.

Key Themes and Information:

Early Life and Family:

Jerry Howard Lewis was born on May 3, 1912, in Coleman, Texas to Carrie Elizabeth Dyer and Jeremiah Alford Lewis.

His parents were aged 39 and 40, respectively, at the time of his birth, suggesting they were likely older than typical first-time parents at the time.

He grew up in Coleman, Texas, with his family. Census records indicate he had a sister and later, six boarders living in his home with his parents.

Pre-Military Life & Work:

The text shows a progression from residing in his hometown to working as a miner in California by 1940 at the Walker Mine, and then at the Consolidated Coppermines Corp. in Kimberly, Nevada.

This indicates a period of migration and manual labor before military service.

His physical description at the time of draft registration on October 16, 1940, was red hair, brown eyes, 5'9", and 155 lbs. He was living at the Collins Hotel in Ely, Nevada.

He had a 4 year high school education before enlisting.

Military Enlistment and Training:

Jerry H. Lewis enlisted in the US Army as a private on March 17, 1941, from civilian life in Salt Lake City, Utah, indicating a commitment to military service.

He trained with the 755th Tank Battalion at Camp Bowie, Texas. This highlights his initial assignment to an armored unit.

He was selected for Officer Training and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on January 8, 1942.

He received his observer wings in August 1942 and was later promoted to Captain on June 1, 1943. This shows a steady progression in his military career.

Marriage

He married Miss Martha Belle Abbington in July 1943 at Tarrant County, Texas.

Overseas Deployment and Combat:

Captain Lewis shipped out for overseas duty in May 1944, signaling his entry into the combat theater of World War II.

He was part of the 38th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, F Company, Troop B, 102nd Cavalry Group, First US Army. His assignment to a reconnaissance unit places him on the front lines.

He was in action near Altenahr, Germany on March 7, 1945 when he was killed in action.

Death in Action:

Captain Lewis was killed in action while engaging German forces near Altenahr, Germany.

The text provides a detailed account of his actions leading up to his death: "Captain Lewis was riding in his 1/4 ton vehicle and moved to the front to see if there was any way he could deploy his tanks to advantage... Captain Lewis reached the top of the cliff, firing as he advanced, and was seen to take cover, reload his M-1 rifle, and move out toward a German machine gun and bazooka position about 50 yards away... Captain Lewis was half-way to the nest when a missile, aimed directly at him, exploded at his feet and he fell to the ground."

His actions indicate bravery and a proactive approach to combat.

He was initially buried in a temporary grave before being reinterred at the Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery and Memorial in Belgium after the war.

Awards

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, and the Purple Heart for his service.

Key Quotes:

"Captain Lewis was riding in his 1/4 ton vehicle and moved to the front to see if there was any way he could deploy his tanks to advantage." - This highlights his initiative and desire to actively contribute to the battle.

"Captain Lewis was half-way to the nest when a missile, aimed directly at him, exploded at his feet and he fell to the ground." - This is a direct account of the circumstances of his death.

Conclusion:

The provided text paints a picture of Jerry Howard Lewis as a man who progressed from a life of working class labor to becoming a decorated officer in the US Army. His actions in the final battle of his life showcased his bravery and commitment to duty. The details surrounding his death emphasize the intensity and dangers faced by soldiers on the front lines during World War II. His military career was marked by consistent promotions and his actions were recognized with multiple awards for his bravery.