Seth Williams

Seth Williams (January 19, 1880 – July 29, 1963) was an officer of the United States Marine Corps with the rank of major general, who served at Headquarters Marine Corps as Quartermaster General of the United States Marine Corps during the years 1937–1944.

Williams is most noted for his efforts during the construction of Marine Barracks, Quantico following the United States entry into World War I and for the construction of several military training centers at the beginning of World War II: Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Camp Pendleton, California and Camp Elliott.

Early career

Seth Williams was born on January 19, 1880, in Foxborough, Massachusetts, as the son of Jarvis and Elizabeth Williams. Following high school, he entered the Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont, in 1899. During his time at the university, Williams was leading the corps of cadets in his senior year as the cadet major. He was also a member of Vermont National Guard, where he rose to the rank of first lieutenant.

Williams served in this capacity throughout World War II and finally was relieved by Major General William P. T. Hill on February 1, 1944. For his service as quartermaster of the Marine Corps, he was decorated with the Legion of Merit by the Secretary of the Navy, Frank Knox.

General Williams was recalled to active duty in May 1946 and assumed duty as a member of Marine Corps Retirement Board together with generals Holland Smith, Roy S. Geiger, Harry Schmidt, Vice Admiral Richard L. Conolly and Colonel Lionel C. Goudeau as Recorder. His job was to consider the retirement of officers in the regular Marine Corps in the rank of brigadier general.

1st RowLegion of MeritMarine Corps Expeditionary Medal with one starWorld War I Victory Medal with two battle claspsArmy of Occupation of Germany Medal2nd RowAmerican Defense Service Medal American Campaign MedalWorld War II Victory MedalHaitian Distinguished Service Medal and Diploma