Private 1st Class, Co. C, 1st Div., 28th Reg. Born in Lenoir County, Aug. 20, 1898; son of Joseph H. and Elizabeth Dixon Rountree. Entered service April 19, 1917, at Kinston, N.C. Sent to Savannah, Ga. Transferred to Texas. Fought at Cantigny and wounded there May 30, 1918. Died May 31, 1918. Buried in French Cemetery.
Joseph Dixon Rountree was the first from Lenoir County to fall on the battlefields of France. This closes the door on the earthly existence of this Lenoir County lad, leaving to us the memory of a life given to the cause of humanity.
He heard humanity’s clear call,
And knew the voice divine,
He gave his life, he gave his all,
In deadly battle line.The silent stars in love look down,
Where lies this loyal son,
In frost and dew they weave a crown,
Of honors he has won.