Private First Class J.D. Blackard
(U.S. Army – World War II & Occupation Forces, Japan)
Private First Class J.D. Blackard enlisted during his senior year of high school in December 1944, answering the call to serve his country in the final months of World War II. He was inducted at Camp Joseph T. Robinson in Little Rock, Arkansas, in March 1945, and assigned to Camp Fannin near Tyler, Texas, where he completed 18 weeks of advanced infantry training in Paris, Texas.
Following his training, he was transferred to Fort Ord, California, to prepare for overseas duty. From there, he departed for Okinawa, Japan, as a member of the 8th Army occupation forces. The war ended in August 1945, shortly after the atomic bomb brought an end to hostilities in the Pacific.
Demonstrating continued commitment, Mr. Blackard re-enlisted in December 1945 for 18 additional months, serving in the Panama Canal Department with the Quartermaster Corps. His permanent rank was Private First Class, and his military specialties included M-1 Rifle Marksman and Truck Driver (Light 345).
Military Service Number: 38739543
Records Reference: Affiliate ARC Identifier 1263923 – Box Film Number 13736.139
For his honorable service, Pfc. Blackard earned several military decorations, including:
- The Lapel Button (Honorable Service Emblem)
- Army of Occupation Medal – Japan
- Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon
- Philippine Independence Ribbon
- World War II Victory Medal
After returning home, Mr. Blackard devoted more than 30 years to education, serving as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Lovington Public School System. He also taught and coached in Atkins, Arkansas, and Lake Arthur, New Mexico.
A true patriot, he faithfully attended veterans’ ceremonies and community events throughout his life. His favorite moments were those spent in the local schools, watching children honor veterans by marching through the halls on patriotic days. Though he rarely spoke of his war experiences, his quiet pride and deep love for his country were evident to everyone who knew him.
Mr. Blackard was married to his beloved wife, Juanita “Pudge” Blackard, for 66 years until his passing in 2013. Together they raised one daughter, Connie, and shared a life filled with faith, family, and service.
He was a regular participant in Wreaths Across America ceremonies and other veterans’ events held in Lovington. Stoic yet humble, Mr. Blackard exemplified the values of duty, honor, and patriotism that defined the Greatest Generation.
We honor Private First Class J.D. Blackard for his faithful service to our nation, his dedication to education, and his enduring example of American patriotism. His legacy continues to inspire the community he loved and served so well.
