John W. Overton

John W. Overton was born on October 10th, 1894 in Nashville, Tennessee. His uncle was a judge and the governor of Tennessee, and he was going to take up the position after his uncle's death. He came from Wallace University to the Hill School in 1909, and graduated from Hill in 1913. While at Hill, he was a legendary track runner. He set the American record for the 1,000 yard in 1916, and was was slated to compete in the 1916 Olympics, but they were cancelled due to the first World War. . He got accepted into Yale and, in 1917, was selected by the school to be in the marines. During the time between his enrollment and his move to the front lines of Marne, he led his platoon in a skirmish near Vierzy, France to advance against the enemy under heavy fire. They were successful, and he was severely wounded in the act, but survived the injury. He was discharged into Marne in 1918, and fought in the Second Battle of the Marne. Tragically, he was struck by a piece of shrapnel lodged close to his heart and died a few days later. He earned the Navy Cross for his efforts at Vierzy, and was promoted to First Lieutenant. His name is on the plaque on the wall in the memorial room.