James E. Garner
38445068 Sergeant
25th Bombardment Group (Reconnaissance )
United States Army
1943-1945

     James Edward Garner was born 20 September 1922 near Wynne, Arkansas, the son of William Jefferson and Edith Shields Garner. He had three brothers and two sisters: Willie Wilson; George Albert; Ozerna Katherine; Lauless Eugene and Edith Lavella. Edward lived on the family farm in the Jolly Ellis Community and graduated from Wynne High School in 1942.
    Edward was inducted into the Army 8 January 1943. He attended the Enlisted Technician School (Dental Technician) and was assigned to the 25th Bombardment Group (Reconnaissance) in Europe. During World War II, Edward participated in the following battles and campaigns: Normandy; the Air Offensive of Europe; Northern France; Central Europe; Rhineland and Ardennes. He was discharged 12 September 1945 having earned the EAME Service Ribbon with one Silver Service Star and one Bronze Service Star; the Good Conduct Medal and the Distinguished Unit Badge.
    Edward married Mildred Rhoads 20 January 1946 and they have three children: James Larry, Billy Thomas and Joan. Edward was a charter member and deacon of Grace Missionary Baptist Church. He was employed by the Arkansas State Highway Department for thirty-three years.
    James Edward Garner died on 16 October 1980 and was buried in Crosslawn Cemetery , Wynne, Arkansas.