On August 8, 1944 (his 38th birthday), my grand uncle, Pfc. Michael Harris of the 331st Infantry Regiment, Company F, made the supreme sacrifice for our country and our freedom.  It is in his memory, and those who have served with him in the 83rd Infantry Division, that I have prepared this web site.

Pfc. Michael Harris was one of 6 brothers who served in the armed forces during WWII.  He entered the service on March 9, 1942 and served with the 44th Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, Washington, Camp White, Oregon, and in San Fernando, California prior to being transferred to the 83rd Infantry Division as a reinforcement.

On August 8, 1944, members of the 331st Infantry Regiment, Company F were engaged in attacking the Germans in the vicinity of Le Gue, France during the battle for St. Malo.  The attack progressed satisfactorily until the troops reached the outskirts of the town, at which time they received fire from a strongly fortified enemy position.  The troops took cover and neutralizing fire was called for from supporting tanks.  The fire from the tanks brought forth counter battery fire by enemy tanks and it was at this time that Pfc. Michael Harris was killed instantly when an enemy shell exploded near him.   Questioning of remaining personnel of Company F revealed that the following enlisted men were present during the time of his death:  T/Sgt Stanley R. Nelson, S/Sgt Durwood Root.  (View Field Journal of the 331st Infantry Regiment on August 8, 1944).

Pfc. Michael Harris was buried in the United States Military Cemetery at St. James, France.  His remains were later brought back to the United States.