By Deborah Larsen
Everett Deaton
Everett Deaton was born in Kentucky on November 25, 1916, the son of Oscar and Zetta Barker Deaton. The Deaton family moved to Avon Township about 1935. Before the war, Everett worked for a Pontiac building contractor.
In June 1942, Everett entered the U.S. Army and was sent overseas three months later. He was assigned to the 19th Engineer Combat Regiment, which took part in the North Africa campaign. Everett saw action in Algiers, Tunisia, Sicily, and Italy.
While in Tunisia, Everett was serving as a machine-gunner aboard a truck that was transporting 17 troops. When the truck was strafed by enemy aircraft, Everett remained at his gun, returning fire and driving off the attackers while his comrades took cover. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry for remaining at his post and saving the lives of his fellow soldiers at risk to his own.
Everett was released from military service in June 1945. After the war, he continued his employment in the construction industry.
Everett Deaton died at age 57 on January 15, 1974, and was laid to rest in White Chapel Cemetery.