Clarence Botts, Jr. served in the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in the 2nd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, 43rd Division during World War II. He was wounded by a sniper as they took a hill in Manila, Philippines and died 24 hours later, on May 16, 1945. He received the following awards: two Purple Hearts, Bronze Star, Oak Leaf Cluster, Infantry Combat Badge and Distinguished Service Cross. The Distinguished Service Cross citation reads as follows: "The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Clarence M. Botts (0-1287825), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 2d Battalion, 172d Infantry Regiment, 43d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 and 15 May 1945. Lieutenant Colonel Botts' intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 43d Infantry Division, and the United States Army."
