James L. Harris
Hillsboro, Hill County, Texas
Marker Inscription
James Lindell Harris was born on June 27, 1916 to Albert Lee and bessie harris at the family farm near hillsboro. He entered the army on March 20, 1941 and trained at Fort Sam Houston with the armored division. Harris was assigned to the 756th tank battalion and led his unit through North Africa and Europe. In vagney, France, Harris and his men encountered German troops. Although mortally wounded he continued to lead his men until allied tanks arrived, and refused medical attention until a member of his crew had been carried to safety. In recognition of his bravery, Harris was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. Harris is buried at Ridge Park Cemetery in Hillsboro.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
James Lindell Harris was born on a farm near Hillsboro in 1916 and entered the Army in 1941, training at Fort Sam Houston before joining the 756th Tank Battalion. He led his men through North Africa and Europe, and at Vagney, France, though mortally wounded, kept directing his unit and refused aid until a wounded crewman was carried to safety. For that courage he received the Medal of Honor posthumously.
Why it matters
Harris's story puts a local face on the American sacrifice in World War II, and on the nation's highest honor for valor above and beyond the call of duty.
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Related people
- · James Lindell Harris
Related events
- · World War II
- · Medal of Honor
Themes & tags
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