Henry Williamson

BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP - Henry Williamson said he dodged death numerous times serving as a tank commander with the U.S. Army 1st Armored Division in World War II.In North Africa, a British plane shot down during a dogfight landed on his tank.Williamson said he escaped the tank through a hatch in the bottom, and suffered only burns to his neck.

In Italy, a grenade blew a hole in the tank.Williamson and his crew baled out of the moving tank into a ditch.Then, while under German troop fire, Williamson said he ran after the tank, hopped in and put on the brake.

Williamson was in safer circumstances yesterday as he prepared to receive the New Jersey Meritorious Service Medal at the Bordentown Armory on Route 206.The 86-year-old Maple Shade resident wore the same green wool uniform jacket and shirt he did during the war.

"I am honored to be able to get it and have served my country," he said.