William K. Jones

William K. Jones
William K. Jones
Birth name	William Kenefick Jones
Nickname(s)	Willie K
Born	October 23, 1916; Joplin, Missouri, U.S.
Died	April 15, 1998 (aged 81); Alexandria, Virginia, U.S.
Buried	Arlington National Cemetery
Branch	United States Marine Corps
Years of service	1936–1972
Rank	Lieutenant general
Unit	1st Battalion 6th Marines
Commands	1st Battalion 6th Marines; 1st Marine Regiment; The Basic School; Recruit Training Regiment, MCRD Parris Island; 3rd Marine Division; I Marine Expeditionary Force; Task Force 79, U.S. Seventh Fleet; Fleet Marine Force, Pacific;
Battles / wars	World War II Battle of Guadalcanal Battle of Tarawa Battle of Saipan Battle of Tinian Battle of Okinawa; Korean War; Vietnam War;
Awards	Navy Cross; Navy Distinguished Service Medal (3); Silver Star; Legion of Merit; Bronze Star; Purple Heart;
Relations	James L. Jones Sr. (brother); James L. Jones Jr. (nephew);

William Kenefick Jones (October 23, 1916 – April 15, 1998) was a United States Marine Corps lieutenant general and a highly decorated veteran of three wars. His distinguished career included service as a battalion commander in World War II, regimental commander following the Korean War, and division commander during the Vietnam War. Jones was awarded the Navy Cross, Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart for his valor. His final assignment was as commander of the Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. He retired in 1972 after 33 years of active duty.