William J. Livsey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William J. Livsey
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General William J. Livsey
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| Nickname(s) | "Lipp" |
| Born | June 8, 1931 Clarkston, Georgia |
| Died | June 18, 2016 (aged 85) Fayetteville, Georgia |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1952–1987 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands held | Eighth United States Army Third United States Army 8th Infantry Division United States Army Infantry School 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment |
| Battles/wars | Korean War Vietnam War |
| Awards | Defense Distinguished Service Medal Army Distinguished Service Medal (2) Silver Star Legion of Merit (4) Distinguished Flying Cross Bronze Star Medal |
| Spouse(s) | Bena Sue Burns |
William James "Lipp" Livsey (June 8, 1931 – June 18, 2016) was an important general in the United States Army. He led many soldiers and played a big role in the military. From 1984 to 1987, he was in charge of the United Nations Command and U.S. Forces in Korea.
Contents
Early Life and Education
William Livsey was born on June 8, 1931, in Clarkston, Georgia. He went to North Georgia College. He graduated in 1952 and became a second lieutenant in the Army.
Livsey continued his education later in life. He earned a master's degree in Psychology from Vanderbilt University. He also attended several advanced military schools. He even graduated first in his class at the United States Army Command and General Staff College.
Military Career Highlights
General Livsey had a long and distinguished career in the Army. He served in two major conflicts. These were the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
Early Combat Experience
In 1953, Livsey served in the Korean War. He was a platoon leader with the 3rd Infantry Division. After Korea, he commanded a company at Fort Benning, Georgia. From 1958 to 1961, he served in Germany.
Livsey's second combat tour was in Vietnam. This was from 1967 to 1968. He worked with the 4th Infantry Division. He also commanded the 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry.
Leading Divisions and Corps
In May 1971, Livsey took command of the 2nd Brigade. This was part of the 4th Infantry Division. He returned to Fort Carson in 1974. There, he served as an Assistant Division Commander.
From 1977 to 1979, he led the United States Army Infantry School. This school trains infantry soldiers. In May 1979, Livsey became the Commanding General. He led the 8th Infantry Division in Europe.
He then commanded the VII Corps until 1983. Before his final assignment, he was Deputy Commanding General. He also led the Third United States Army.
Top Commander in Korea
In May 1984, General Livsey took on a very important role. He became the Commander-in-Chief of the United Nations Command. He also led the U.S. Forces in Korea. He held these positions until his retirement. He retired from the Army on June 30, 1987.
Awards and Honors
General Livsey received many awards for his bravery and service. These awards show his dedication to his country.
- Defense Distinguished Service Medal
- Army Distinguished Service Medal (with an oak leaf cluster)
- Silver Star
- Legion of Merit (with three oak leaf clusters)
- Distinguished Flying Cross
- Bronze Star Medal (with "V" device)
- Air Medals
- Army Commendation Medal (with "V" device and two oak leaf clusters)
- Combat Infantryman Badge (second award)
- Army Staff Identification Badge
- Parachutist Badge
Legacy and Recognition
General Livsey was honored in several ways after his military career. These honors recognize his service.
In October 2008, a part of Highway 314 was renamed. It became the "General Bill Livsey Highway." This was in Fayetteville, Georgia. Many military leaders attended the ceremony.
On April 18, 2009, a drill field was renamed. It is at the University of North Georgia. It became the William J. "Lipp" Livsey Drill Field. A special plaque was placed there to honor him.
General Livsey passed away on June 18, 2016. He was 85 years old.
Images for kids
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The William J. "Lipp" Livsey Drill Field at the University of North Georgia
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The plaque commemorating Livsey adjacent to the William J. Livsey Drill field at the University of North Georgia
