John Paul Lamond

John Paul Lamond, 97, passed away peacefully at home on September 7, 2020. Surrounded by his extended family, his passing on Labor Day was a fitting end to a full and honorable life spent serving his country. John was born on March 1, 1923 in Paulding, Ohio. The son of Perry and Verdie (Timmons) Lamond, he was the second of three sons. A highly-decorated veteran of three wars - World War II, Korea, and Vietnam - John earned 25 commendations, including three Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts, and a Presidential Unit Citation. His Army career began in 1943 when he enlisted at the age of 19. As a scout behind enemy lines in WW II, John was injured and taken prisoner in 1945, spending nearly three months in labor camps across Germany. During the Korean War, John took part in the last major U.S. bayonet charge in history. Days later, he was shot in the chest and sent to M.A.S.H. for surgery. After recovering, he chose to return to Korea to finish his duty. He later served in Vietnam and rose to the rank of Major before retiring from the Army in 1965. After serving his country for 32 years, including 20 years in the Army and 12 years in civil service, John enjoyed his retirement in Florida, and later in Georgia. He spent Saturdays cheering on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes, and fell asleep happily to the sweet sound of his Atlanta Braves whenever they took the field. His love for country was surpassed only by his love for God and his family; spending time with them was his highest priority. John is survived by Ruth, his loving wife of nearly 40 years, his two daughters from his first marriage, Jo-Ellen Stallo and Debra Clayton, two grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He was beloved "Uncle John" to countless other family members, including sister-in-law Sara Barrett, brother-in-law John Barrett, and many adoring nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Geraldine, his son Alan, and his brothers Clark and Max. A true American hero, John guarded, defended, and ensured the safety of all Americans, both at home and abroad, to make this country safe and allow us to enjoy freedom without fear. Well done, good and faithful servant. John will be interred with full military honors at Georgia National Cemetery; due to Covid-19, there will not be a funeral service at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Army Historical Foundation (www.armyhistory.org). Arrangements are being handled by Poole Funeral Home, Woodstock, GA.