Lewis Nixon, U.S. Army captain (b. 1918)

Captain Lewis Nixon III (September 30, 1918 – January 11, 1995) was a distinguished United States Army officer whose exemplary service during World War II left an indelible mark on military history. A prominent figure within the legendary 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR) of the 101st Airborne Division, famously known as the "Screaming Eagles," Nixon's career progressed through vital leadership roles at the company, battalion, and regimental levels.

Born into a family of considerable means in New York City, Lewis Nixon chose a path of dedicated military service, a decision that would immerse him in some of the most intense combat of the war. He received his commission as an officer after successfully completing Army Officer Candidate School, embarking on a career defined by duty and bravery.

Service with the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment

Nixon's pivotal journey with the 506th PIR commenced early in their rigorous training at Camp Toccoa, Georgia. It was there that he forged a close and enduring friendship with Major (later Major General) Richard Winters, a bond that would become central to their wartime and post-war lives. Nixon initially served as the S-2 (Intelligence) Officer for the 2nd Battalion. This was a critical position, demanding sharp analytical skills and tactical foresight, as he was responsible for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating intelligence that directly influenced crucial battlefield decisions, thereby ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the troops under challenging conditions.

His combat deployments spanned the entirety of the European Theater of Operations, encompassing some of the most pivotal and harrowing campaigns of World War II:

• D-Day (Normandy, France, June 1944): As an integral part of the initial Allied airborne assault, Nixon parachuted into occupied France on June 6, 1944, playing a vital role in securing objectives behind enemy lines during the largest seaborne invasion in history.
• Operation Market Garden (Netherlands, September 1944): He participated in this ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful airborne operation, aimed at securing key bridges in the Netherlands. Throughout the intense fighting across the Dutch countryside, Nixon faced fierce German resistance.
• The Battle of the Bulge (Bastogne, Belgium, December 1944 – January 1945): Enduring the brutal winter siege of Bastogne, Nixon, alongside the rest of the 101st Airborne Division, valiantly held their ground against overwhelming German forces, a stand that earned the division immense renown for their unwavering resilience and courage.

Nixon's exceptional performance, characterized by his strategic acumen and steadfast resolve, led to his promotion and subsequent transfer to the regimental headquarters. Here, he continued to serve with distinction as the S-2 (Intelligence) Officer for the entire 506th PIR, expanding his responsibilities to provide critical intelligence support across all three battalions of the regiment.

Post-War Life and Enduring Legacy

Following the cessation of hostilities in Europe, Lewis Nixon served briefly before transitioning back to civilian life. Like many veterans of his generation, he faced personal challenges in adapting to peacetime, a period during which his close bond with Richard Winters remained a significant source of mutual support. After the war, he dedicated himself to the family business, Nixon Uniform Service, where his leadership capabilities ultimately saw him rise to the position of president.

Portrayal in Band of Brothers

Lewis Nixon's extraordinary wartime experiences and distinctive personality were vividly brought to a global audience through the critically acclaimed HBO miniseries Band of Brothers (2001). This highly influential production, based on the non-fiction book by renowned historian Stephen E. Ambrose, compellingly depicted the harrowing yet inspiring story of Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th PIR. In the miniseries, Nixon was powerfully portrayed by actor Ron Livingston, who effectively captured his intelligence, unwavering loyalty to his comrades, and some of the profound personal challenges he faced under the immense pressures of combat. The series significantly enhanced the public's understanding and appreciation of the profound sacrifices made by these "Band of Brothers."

Frequently Asked Questions About Captain Lewis Nixon III

Who was Captain Lewis Nixon III?

Captain Lewis Nixon III was a decorated United States Army officer and an intelligence specialist who served with profound distinction in the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, part of the legendary 101st Airborne Division, during World War II.

What was Lewis Nixon's primary role within the 506th PIR?

His primary role was the S-2 (Intelligence) Officer, serving first for the 2nd Battalion and later for the entire 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment. In this capacity, he was responsible for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating vital enemy intelligence to support critical tactical operations and planning.

Which major World War II campaigns did Captain Nixon participate in?

Captain Nixon was a key participant in several pivotal campaigns of the European Theater, including the D-Day landings in Normandy, the ambitious Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands, and the brutal, defining Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium.

How was Lewis Nixon depicted in the HBO series Band of Brothers?

In the critically acclaimed HBO miniseries Band of Brothers, Lewis Nixon was portrayed by actor Ron Livingston. His depiction highlighted his sharp intellect, his deep loyalty to his fellow soldiers, particularly Richard Winters, and the personal struggles he navigated amidst the intense environment of combat.

What did Lewis Nixon do after World War II?

After his military service, Lewis Nixon returned to civilian life and joined his family's business, Nixon Uniform Service. He eventually ascended to the role of president of the company, while maintaining enduring friendships with many of his wartime comrades, including Major Richard Winters.