Staff Sergeant William H. Hudson Jr. Vietnam Combat Veteran

Staff Sergeant William (Billy) Henry Hudson, Jr ., a proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away on October 6, 2023, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Columbia South Carolina.

Billy was a native of Lady's Island, South Carolina and graduated from St. Helena High School in 1959 where he was the class President. He was predeceased by his loving parents, William and Marie Hudson, Sr., and sister Mazie Helen Hudson.

He is survived by his wife Linda Hudson, five children from previous marriages: William H. Hudson, III, Earl Hudson, Azie Hudson, Xavier Hudson and Theofel Hudson, 12 Grandchildren, 11 Great-Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great-Grandchild, 1 nephew, 1 niece, and a host of cousins and family.

The U.S. Army recognized Billy for his honorable service while operating in the Republic of Vietnam with multiply Medals and citations.

Staff Sergeant Hudson, Jr. , received his first Bronze Star Medal with Valor and first Purple Heart with Valor specifically for his heroic action at the Battle of Bong Son Valley in 1966, where he evacuated the wounded while under intense and accurate enemy fire and thereby saved several lives that would have been otherwise lost.

Staff Sergeant Hudson, Jr ., received his second Bronze Star Medal with Valor and second Purple Heart with Valor specifically for his heroic action while escorting a convoy in the Republic of Vietnam in 1970, where he exposed himself to a hail of enemy fire as he began placing suppressive fire on the aggressors and assisted in the evacuation of the wounded.

Billy's experience in the Army played a very important role in his life. He frequently pointed out that the Army taught him the value of discipline, teamwork, and investing in a cause larger than himself.

His family has organized a memorial service to honor Billy's life and military service, which will be held at the Florence National Cemetery on October 16, 2023, at 1:00 pm.