1LT Clarence West of Charleston

First Lieutenant Clarence West accomplished a great deal before he was killed in action in Germany during World War II. One of eight children West was an honor roll student at North Charleston High School before joining the military. In addition to his military service, he worked for the North State Lumber Corporation. He earned the Combat Infantry Badge before his death on November 5, 1944. First Lieutnenant West was survived by his wife, Armistine, and daughter Emily. He is one of 14 out of 32 soldiers we researched and found information on as part of our partnership with the Faces of Margraten project.

Upcoming Event

Colonial militia reenactors in a field.

Defenders of Liberty: The Evolving Story of America’s Military

May 22, 2025, 10:00 AM

Join us for a one hour webinar exploring America's military evolution from its colonial militia roots to its modern global presence. This focused session traces the remarkable transformation of U.S. armed forces that began with citizen soldiers defending colonial settlements against Native American tribes and fighting for independence from Great Britain.