103rd Cactus Division

PFC SAMUEL B. ABNEY - (FOD)

Born September 16, 1925.

 

PFC Abney trained at Camp Fannin, TX with the 13^th Regiment before joining the 103d.

 

On January 2, 1945, near Behren, France, about 6 miles east of Saarbrucken, Samuel

was given the mission of furnishing protection for a group of tank destroyers. While

advancing toward the enemy lines, the entire task force was subjected to intense enemy

fire, pinning them to the ground and necessitating their withdrawal. It is believed that

Samuel was wounded and unable to withdraw when the order was given. As this action

took place in enemy territory, a search for Samuel could not be made. A few days later,

this territory was taken by our troops, but Samuel could not be found.  He was 19 years

old.

 

PFC Abney was returned to his hometown and rests in honor at Smyrna Cemetery in

Emory, Texas.