US AIRBORNE

Here’s a glimpse into the life of Louis Weldon Moon. I thank his son, Danny, for the help provided.

Here is the address of his website: http://www.geocities.com/gliderman325/index.html?200715

Louis Weldon Moon was born in Venus, Texas, on May 10, 1924. He was part of a family of five children, with four brothers.

His father, Hugh L. Moon, worked as a night guard for the city of Alvarado for many years. Louis attended school in Venus.

Later, Louis Moon worked as a clerk in a store in Alvarado until November 27, 1943.

On that date, he joined the army.

Louis Moon began his training at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. He was then sent overseas to Great Britain to complete his training.

Louis Moon was assigned to Company B of the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne.

Louis Moon participated in three major campaigns: Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands, the Battle of the Bulge, and the entry into Germany.

Louis W. Moon was wounded twice: on October 11, 1944, in Holland and on December 24, 1944, in Belgium.

Following the latter injury, he was evacuated and sent back to the United States to the William Beaumont General Hospital in El Paso, Texas.

He was discharged and returned to civilian life on December 13, 1945.

After leaving the hospital, Louis Moon returned to Alvarado and started a career in construction.

Louis W. Moon married Mary Frances Hall and had five children.

Elections were held in Alvarado to elect a Special Officer. Louis Moon decided to run and was elected. A few months later, he was appointed Deputy Marshal of Alvarado and later became Chief of Police. He served the city of Alvarado for 21 years. He was then asked to become Chief Deputy Sheriff of Johnson County, a position he held until 1969. He then worked as a Juvenile and Adult Probation Officer until 1971. During this time, he was also the Civil Defense Director for Johnson County. In the next election, he ran for the position of Sheriff for Johnson County.

At the end of 1972, Louis Moon suffered a heart attack while working at the 18th District Court. After a long period of rest in the Johnson hospital, he returned home. Several weeks later, he was diagnosed with emphysema and a severe heart condition. At that moment, Louis Moon knew his career was over, and he was devastated.

Louis W. Moon passed away on December 9, 1985.