J. L. Montgomery was born on May 2, 1923, in Copeville, Collin County, Texas. He was the son of Sam Montgomery and Lenna Pearl "Lenner" Gossett Montgomery. Sgt Montgomery served in the United States Army with the 740th Tank Battalion in World War II. Known as the “Daredevil Tankers”, the 740th was a separate battalion that fought from Utah Beach all the way to the Baltic Sea in support of various divisions of the US war effort.

Sgt Montgomery was Killed in Action on February 2, 1945, in Germany. He is now buried in the Thompson Cemetery, Lavon, Collin County, Texas, USA.

Silver Star 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 Sergeant J. L. Montgomery (ASN: 38431919), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 740th Tank Battalion, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 2 February 1945, near *****, Germany. During the advance on the town, Sergeant Montgomery, Tank Commander, came under fire of enemy anti-tank guns. He opened fire, but after four rounds his gun jammed and he was forced to withdraw his tank. Sergeant Montgomery attempted to call another tank commander on the radio to come forward and knock out the anti-tank guns which were holding up the advance of the attacking platoon. Unable to make contact on the radio, Sergeant Montgomery, disregarding the heavy barrage of enemy mortar and artillery fire, dismounted from his tank and moved to another tank. Sergeant Montgomery, on foot, led this tank into position and was pointing out the targets when he was killed by enemy artillery fire. By this gallant action Sergeant Montgomery effected the annihilation of the enemy anti-tank guns and enabled the platoon to accomplish its mission with a minimum of casualties. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Source of information: www.findagrave.com, valor.militarytimes.com