This veteran's son has compiled the records about his father's experience in Italy. His father didn't talk much about it so most of what he knows is from the records of his promotion and citation for the Bronze Star Medal.As you read this, be praying for Mr. Lewis and his entire family, as he has been diagnosed with a fatal disease.
Lt. Stancy Lewis, Co. B, 310th Combat Engineer Battalion,
Stancy was born in Marshalburg, North Carolina. He was inducted at Ft. Bragg N.C. and after basic training, he transfered to Camp Shelby, MS, and began training with Company B, 310th Combat Engineers of the 85th "Custer" Infantry Division. He entered the war in North Africa, as a Staff Sergeant and was later promoted to an officer during the campaign in Italy.
Sgt or Lt Stancy Lewis in Italy
Recommendation for promotion to Officer.
General Order dated 12 Sept 1944. (Quoting only a portion of it.)
On or about 20 May 1944, Sgt. Lewis' platoon accompanied a force on an amphibious operation from GAETA, ITALY to SPERLONGA, ITALY. During the voyage the amphibious vehicle in which Sgt. Lewis and approximately half of his platoon were riding sank. Sgt. Lewis kept the group together, encourage and sought assistance for the poor swimmers and was largely responsible for the lack of panic which prevented a large number of casualties.
On or about 21 August 1944, his platoon was engaged in clearing the streets of EMPOLI, ITALY for the passage of traffic, when his platoon leader stepped on a mine. Sgt. Lewis saw to the evacuation of the officer, took over the platoon and completed the task at hand, despite the presence of numerous mines and intermittent artillery fire.
A Bailey Bridge installed by 310th Engineers to span a portion of a blown bridge.
I should have more photos of Lt. Lewis' company that I will post on his biography page that I'm building.
Steve
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Hello all,
My father, Stancy Lewis, passed away on October 28, 2006, after a long struggle with prostate cancer - and
ultimately congestive heart failure. He would have been 88 on his birthday in December.
Daddy was able to be at home, with his family thanks to the amazing services provided by and
through Hospice of Charleston (SC). It is through their help guidance we we learned to deal
with death and passing - but it was daddy's strength and sense of humor that built the bridge.
I wish to thank Steve Cole for his efforts in helping tell some of the story about our fathers in the 310th.
The more I learn, the more proud I am of each and every one - and of the loved ones & friends who
remained on the home front also working tirelessly to win through to victory.
I would like to hear from any and all related to these men, and will try to share photos (and background)
as I locate them. Fortunately, my mom is still with us - still strong and a wealth of information about
those times and trials. She has been able to fill in a lot of blanks. Also, in the months leading up to
daddy passing, I asked about many of the 310th activities and operations. Daddy would, as best he could,
fill in the blanks. Usually, though, his stories were about the friends he made there - and sadly, some he lost.
Anyway, I will begin contributing to this forum in the near future - but, for now, thanks to all.
Randy Lewis
Photo - Lt. Stancy Lewis, in 1968. 