Joseph W. Cambron entered the military service in Kentucky. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a First Lieutenant in the 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. He died on October 8, 1944 and is now buried in Henri-Chapelle American Cemetery, Hombourg, Belgium. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 October 1944, in Germany. Seriously wounded by a shell fragment as he led his platoon across an open field during an advance upon a pillbox, First Lieutenant Cambron dragged himself to a nearby shell crater to locate the source of the withering machine gun, automatic weapons and small arms fire which pinned his platoon to the ground. After crawling back to his squad leaders to issue necessary orders, when he was spotted by the enemy and again wounded. Despite intense pain, he remained staunch and directed effective fire upon the strongpoint to cover the withdrawal of his men. Observing a squad leader struck by a hail of bullets from the pillbox, First Lieutenant Cambron, although twice wounded, dragged himself across a completely exposed sector to the aid of his wounded sergeant. Again the object of devastating enemy fire, First Lieutenant Cambron was fatally wounded as he attempted to pull the sergeant to safety. First Lieutenant Cambron's fearless leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.