Injuries and Death Not long into his time overseas, Boggs was injured by a small, flying piece of shrapnel. This hit him in the left ear and kept him in the hospital for around 20 days, unable to fight. When he was well enough, he immediately went back into active duty. This is the only known major injury of his during the war.
Private First Class William Lester Boggs was killed on July 17, 1944, just over a year from entering the military. About 7 miles southeast of Pisa, Italy, William was struck by the concussion of an enemy shell that landed just above where he had taken cover. He was killed instantly at the age of 27.
His family was not notified of his death until the fifth of August by a cab driver. Months and even years later, the family still received more letters dealing with Boots' death, burial, and belongings.
Burial Boggs is buried on Plot G Row 2 Grave 25, Florence American Cemetery, Florence, Italy. His family chose not to have his remains shipped back home. However, Maudie Florine Boggs, his wife, was sent the few things found on his body. This included a fountain pen, an address book, personal letters, and $16.77.
A family friend of the Boggs' visited Italy in 1995. With the permission of the family, this friend was able to visit the grave and take photos. However, due to US National Cemetery regulations, no type of markings were made on the grave of Boots.
After Boots' death, Miss Maudie, his wife, was given a monthly pension of $15 which was eventually raised to $25 before she married her second husband, James B. Davis on November 8, 1946.