Howard Luther was born in TN on January 10, 1920, but grew up in Maryland. His family was living in Prince George's County, MD for the 1930 Federal Census. As a young teenager, Howard enjoyed spending time during the summer with aunts, uncles, and cousins in the mountains of NC. Howard graduated from Hyattsville High School in MD. He is listed as a carpenter in the 1940 Federal Census.

Apparently Howard was living in Prince George's County when he enlisted. According to his enlistment papers he enlisted on 3 Feb 1942, but according to a bio in the WWII Young American Patriots 1941-1945 (of Maryland), he joined the service on 15 Nov of 1941 in Ft Meade MD. Howard served in the 115th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division as a Staff Sergeant during World War II. He was Killed in Action on June 12, 1944 during the attack on Le Pont de la Pierre, France. The 29th Infantry Division was ordered to cross the Elle in southern direction, also in order to advance on Saint-Lô. The intention was to take Saint-Clair-sur-l’Elle first and then Couvains. SSGT Luther is now buried in the Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Arlington County, Virginia, USA. He was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his actions during the war.

Silver Star Medal Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Howard D. Luther (ASN: 20341987), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Canon Company, 115th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at St. Lo, France. On 12 June 1944, Staff Sergeant Luther observed a wounded American soldier lying helpless in an open field which was being swept by heavy enemy fire. Without regard for his personal safety, Staff Sergeant Luther went to the aid of, and attempted to evacuate the wounded soldier. While returning with the wounded soldier, both were killed by an enemy sniper. The gallantry and great courage displayed by Staff Sergeant Luther reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Service.

Source of information: www.findagrave.com