U.S. MEDAL CITATIONS

Name: Private First Class Joe E. Mann
Unit: Company H, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Best, 19 September 1944

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: He distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty. On 18 September 1944, in the vicinity of Best, the Netherlands, his platoon, attempting to seize the bridge across the Wilhelmina Canal, was surrounded and isolated by an enemy force greatly superior in personnel and firepower. Acting as lead scout, Pfc. Mann boldly crept to within rocket-launcher range of an enemy artillery position and, in the face of heavy enemy fire, destroyed an 88mm gun and an ammunition dump. Completely disregarding the great danger involved, he remained in his exposed position, and, with his M-1 rifle, killed the enemy one by one until he was wounded 4 times. Taken to a covered position, he insisted on returning to a forward position to stand guard during the night. On the following morning the enemy launched a concerted attack and advanced to within a few yards of the position, throwing hand grenades as they approached. One of these landed within a few feet of Pfc. Mann. Unable to raise his arms, which were bandaged to his body, he yelled “grenade” and threw his body over the grenade, and as it exploded, died. His outstanding gallantry above and beyond the call of duty and his magnificent conduct were an everlasting inspiration to his comrades for whom he gave his life.

CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR

Name: Private John R. Towle
Unit: Company C, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Oosterhout, 21 September 1944

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty on 21 September 1944, near Oosterhout, the Netherlands. The rifle company in which Pvt. Towle served as rocket launcher gunner was occupying a defensive position in the west sector of the recently established Nijmegen bridgehead when a strong enemy force of approximately 100 infantry supported by 2 tanks and a half-track formed for a counterattack. With full knowledge of the disastrous consequences resulting not only to his company but to the entire bridgehead by an enemy breakthrough, Pvt. Towle immediately and without orders left his foxhole and moved 200 yards in the face of intense small-arms fire to a position on an exposed dike roadbed. From this precarious position Pvt. Towle fired his rocket launcher at and hit both tanks to his immediate front. Armored skirting on both tanks prevented penetration by the projectiles, but both vehicles withdrew slightly damaged. Still under intense fire and fully exposed to the enemy, Pvt. Towle then engaged a nearby house which 9 Germans had entered and were using as a strongpoint and with 1 round killed all 9. Hurriedly replenishing his supply of ammunition, Pvt. Towle, motivated only by his high conception of duty which called for the destruction of the enemy at any cost, then rushed approximately 125 yards through grazing enemy fire to an exposed position from which he could engage the enemy half-track with his rocket launcher. While in a kneeling position preparatory to firing on the enemy vehicle, Pvt. Towle was mortally wounded by a mortar shell. By his heroic tenacity, at the price of his life, Pvt. Towle saved the lives of many of his comrades and was directly instrumental in breaking up the enemy counterattack.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS

Name: Private First Class William A. Conklin
Unit: Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Best, 19 September 1944

William A. Conklin, 32250158, Private First Class, Infantry, Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, for extraordinary heroism in action on 18 and 19 September 1944, near Best, the Netherlands. While manning a machine gun against approximately three hundred entrenched enemy soldiers, Private First Class Conklin’s position was subjected to heavy enemy automatic weapons, rifle and mortar fire. Moving to a better location, he was attacked by five of the enemy. He killed three with his pistol and forced the others to withdraw. He then destroyed an enemy 20-millimeter gun with his machine gun. The next day, although wounded, Private First Class Conklin killed eight of the enemy and forced the remainder to withdraw. When wounded a second time, he refused evacuation and participated in a bayonet assault. He then destroyed a machine gun with two hand grenades and killed the crew. While charging through enemy positions, he was wounded a third time. During this action, Private First Class Conklin killed forty of the enemy and was instrumental in the capture of four hundred and seventy-five. Entered military service from New York.

Name: First Lieutenant George H. Craft
Unit: Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Sint-Oedenrode, 21 September 1944

George H. Craft, 01297146, First Lieutenant, Parachute Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action against enemy forces on 21 September 1944, in the vicinity of Sint-Oedenrode, the Netherlands. When his platoon came under enemy small arms fire, Lieutenant Craft raced across the distance separating him from the enemy position, firing his weapon into the enemy foxholes routing them from their positions, and capturing five of them. As his platoon continued to move forward, it came under the fire of an estimated enemy company. With total disregard for personal safety, Lieutenant Craft charged forward across an open field, his troops deploying behind him. The fury of his charge carried his platoon forward and caused the enemy to break. In overrunning the enemy position, his platoon captured thirty-eight of the enemy. While his platoon reorganized, Lieutenant Craft pushed forward on a personal reconnaissance of a nearby house. Observing it to be an enemy headquarters, he charged forward alone, and by the use of hand grenades, drove out the enemy and captured eleven prisoners.

Name: Technician Fourth Grade Raymond F. Barton
Unit: Company E, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Veghel, 22 September 1944

Technician Fourth Grade Raymond F. Barton, 19186411, Medical Department, 101st Airborne Division, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a medical aid man, Company E, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, on 22 September 1944, in the Netherlands. Technician Fourth Grade Barton seeing men of his company lying wounded and suffering volunteered to go forward seventy-five yards over exposed ground continually swept by machine gun and tank artillery fire. Realizing he could not drag back the seriously wounded, he stood up and carried them back one by one, making four perilous trips under the same conditions. Then the enemy launched an attack so vigorous that friendly forces were forced to withdraw. The wounded were unable to be evacuated and Technician Fourth Grade Barton elected to remain and treat the wounded. Later, the position was retaken and Technician Fourth Grade Barton realizing the need for immediate hospitalization of the wounded, again exposed himself to enemy fire in order to supervise their evacuation to the rear. The courage, skill, leadership, and coolness under fire displayed by Technician Fourth Grade Barton reflect great credit upon himself and the armed forces. Entered military service from California.

Name: Private First Class Robert L. Deckard
Unit: Company C, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Sint-Oedenrode, 22 September 1944

Robert L. Deckard, 15099076, Private First Class, Parachute Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy on 22 September 1945, in the vicinity of Sint-Oedenrode, the Netherlands. As the lead scout for an infantry platoon he was forward of the main body when it became pinned down by enemy machine gun and 88mm fire. Private First Class Deckard was wounded while exposing himself in order to locate the machine gun. Disregarding his wound, he continued forward and hurled a grenade, which destroyed the enemy gun and killed most of its crew. Discovering the location of an enemy 88mm gun, Private First Class Deckard continued forward with a grenade in each hand. He hurled the grenade at the enemy gun emplacement, killing its entire crew and several of the enemy nearby. Immediately following this action, he was mortally wounded by an enemy sniper. His exceptional fortitude, initiative and unswerving devotion to duty gave inspiration to his comrades to emulate and were a great contribution to the defeat of the enemy in that sector. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Name: Captain Fred O. Drennan
Unit: Company E, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Best, 18 September 1944

Captain Fred O. Drennan, 0-383382, Parachute Infantry, for extraordinary heroism in action at Best, the Netherlands on 18 September 1944. While leading his unit in an attack against very heavy enemy resistance, Captain Drennan, although severely wounded, refused to be evacuated and continued to lead the attack displaying superior skill and determination. While under intense enemy machine gun fire, Captain Drennan located an 88mm gun in a woods and after emplacing a 60mm mortar directed its fire so accurately that the entire enemy gun crew was destroyed. Then, with utter disregard for his personal safety, he advanced fearlessly over an open field and though armed only with a rifle annihilated an enemy machine gun crew that had been firing on his mortar position. Later, while continuing the attack he was mortally wounded. Captain Drennan’s great personal courage, gallant leadership and devotion to duty so inspired his men that they continued with grimmer determination to carry their ultimate objective.

Name: Private First Class William P. Evans
Unit: Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Best, 19 September 1944

William P. Evans, 36325980, Private First Class, Infantry, Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, for extraordinary heroism in action on 19 September 1944, near Best, the Netherlands. During an enemy attack that reached within thirty feet of his position, Private First Class Evans killed three Germans, wounded one and fired on many others. Then, in an attempt to reach an enemy held house, he charged and crawled across an open field under heavy fire and through icy water with a fixed bayonet. Nearing his objective, he observed enemy soldiers leaving the building and others firing on a comrade. Private First Class Evans opened fire, later bayoneted a German who rushed him, and forced the surrender of many. In the course of the action, he and a comrade captured ninety-three and wounded approximately thirty of the enemy. Entered military service from Pennsylvania.

Name: Private First Class Frank P. Garofano
Unit: Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Best, 19 September 1944

Frank P. Garofano, Private First Class, United States Army, 20115488, for extraordinary heroism in action against enemy forces on 19 September 1944, near Best, the Netherlands. The enemy attacked from three sides and supported by artillery and mortar fire, threatened to envelop his company. He fired his sub machine gun at the advancing enemy, killing nine and wounding three. Aware that his platoon‘s assault was impaired by the intense fire, he instructed a comrade to cover him while he moved to the flank in an attempt to enter an enemy held house. Crawling forward, he reached a position ten feet from his objective. He threw a hand grenade into the house, forcing out its hostile occupants. Other forces immediately directed fire on him. Firing on the enemy with his gun he effected the surrender of ninety three and wounded approximately thirty. His actions where in accord with the highest traditions of the armed forces. Entered military service from Massachusetts.

Name: Private First Class Fred S. Jones Jr.
Unit: Company G, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Best, 18 September 1944

Private First Class Fred S. Jones, Jr., 13049385, Parachute Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States, in the vicinity of Best, the Netherlands, on 18 September 1944. In the face of an enemy counterattack by a numerically superior force, Private First Class Jones carried his wounded assistant gunner to safety, treated his wounds and returned to his gun. When the enemy threatened to surround him, he stood upright, in the face of intense fire, and with his machine gun killed thirty of the enemy, wounding many more, and completely repelling the attack, continuing to deliver telling fire on the attacking force until he was fatally wounded. His valor, tenacity of purpose, and selfless devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service. Entered military service from South Carolina.

Name: Lieutenant-Colonel Harry W.O. Kinnard
Unit: Headquarters 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Veghel, 17-20 September 1944

Lieutenant Colonel Harry W. O. Kinnard, O-21990, Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 17 September 1944 in the Netherlands. Lieutenant Colonel Kinnard parachuted with his battalion into enemy held territory in the vicinity of Kameren, Holland. Landing five miles from the appointed dropzone, he organized his men so swiftly that the battalion objectives five miles away were seized in three hours. He initiated and prosecuted a brilliant tactical engagement in which he drove all the enemy in that area to the southeast, with heavy losses. This move resulted in the capture of 418 prisoners. Subsequently, following his successful seizure of Veghel, he attacked strong enemy-held positions on high ground west of Veghel. Fighting with his men in vicious attacks, ever against superior enemy, he led his battalion in the successful seizure of the vital ground. Throughout these successful actions of his unit, Lieutenant Colonel Kinnard was ever at the front of the lead elements, undaunted and unhesitant in the face of great personal danger. His heroic leadership and personal bravery were materially responsible for the success of his unit. His outstanding heroism was in accordance with the highest standards of the military service. Entered military service from Texas.

Note: the tactical engagement that is described in the citation took place on 20 September 1944 and is described in the article of the 101st Airborne Division during Operation Market Garden in the articles section of the website.

Name: Private First Class Orel H. Lev
Unit: Company F, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Veghel, 23 September 1944

Orel H. Lev, 39252131, Private First Class, Infantry, United States Army, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action. On 23 September 1944, his company was in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Veghel, Holland. His platoon was protecting the left flank of the defense when the enemy attacked that flank with three halftracks, one Mark IV tank, and infantry troops. The platoon was forced to withdraw, after suffering heavy casualties, but Private First Class Lev elected to remain and cover the withdrawal of the platoon. Although exposed to heavy enemy fire, he fired his rocket launcher at the leading half-track and killed four of the enemy. At this time, the fire from the tank became a very serious threat to the withdrawing platoon, since its fire was beingdirected by the commander from an open turret. Realizing this, Private First Class Lev killed the tank commander and halted the advance of the tank. He then returned and gave invaluable information to friendly artillery whose effective fire disrupted the enemy attack. In a later action, while moving his machine gun to a better position in order to deliver effective fire on the enemy, he was mortally wounded. His actions were in accordance with the highest standards of the military service. Entered military service from South Gate, California.

Name: Private First Class Ernest J. Miller
Unit: Company A, 327th Glider Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Son, 19 September 1944

Private First Class Ernest J. Miller, 37242753, Glider Infantry, Army of the United States, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 19 September 1944, in the vicinity of Zon, the Netherlands. While his company was assaulting enemy positions, Private First Class Miller advanced with his company across open terrain, continually exposed to heavy mortar, 88 millimeter, machine gun and rifle fire. He fired his Browning Automatic Rifle at the enemy positions until a defect in his weapon caused it to blow up in the midst of the charge on the enemy. Armed with only a trench knife, he continued in the assault, stormed a machine gun position, and single-handed, captured three machine gunners. After disposing of the prisoners, he took over a light machine gun from a wounded comrade, and continued forward in the attack to the assigned objective. His actions were in accordance with the highest standards of the military service. Entered military service from Utah.

Name: Private George A. Whitfield
Unit: 326th Airborne Medical Company, 101st Airborne Division
Place and date: Sint-Oedenrode (Koevering), 26 September 1944

Private George A. Whitfield, 33418676, Airborne Medical Company, Army of the United States, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 26 September 1944, between Sint-Oedenrode and Veghel, the Netherlands. Two friendly tanks were knocked out by enemy 88 millimeter gunfire while attempting to open the road between Sint-Oedenrode and Veghel. Hearing that personnel from tanks lay wounded in an exposed position without medical aid, Private Whitfield voluntarily drove his quarter-ton truck to the rear of the burning armor, concealed his vehicle, and crawled to the aid of two seriously wounded comrades. He administered aid under enemy fire, made his way back to his vehicle, and despite the enemy fire and exploding tank ammunition, drove his vehicle past the tanks. He loaded the wounded men on the vehicle in full view of the enemy, and drove the casualties to the aid station. Private Whitfield again drove to where the tanks were burning, again concealed his vehicle behind a small building, and in the face of enemy fire and the still exploding ammunition, searched the area for more wounded personnel. A direct hit was made on the building, and the vehicle covered with debris. Clearing his vehicle of the debris, he located several wounded, and, under enemy observation and fire, loaded the wounded and carried them to the aid station. His heroic actions saved the lives of his comrades and were an inspiration to all troops in the area. His actions were in accordance with the highest standards of the military service. Entered military service from Pennsylvania.

Name: First Sergeant Leonard A. Funk
Unit: Company C, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Groesbeek (Voxhill), 17 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Leonard Alfred Funk, Jr. (33070198), First Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 18 September 1944, near Voxhill, the Netherlands. With great courage, intrepidity, and on his own initiative, Sergeant Funk lead a three man patrol against a German flak battery of three 20-mm. guns which were firing on American gliders then circling to land. He drove off all enemy security around the guns and led an assault which killed approximately twenty members of the crews and inflicted other causalities. The flak guns were silenced before effective fire could be placed upon the aircraft, due to the courageous and heroic actions of Sergeant Funk. The courageous action of Sergeant Funk contributed, in large part to the prompt seizure of his company objective and assistance in driving the enemy from the landing zone. His initiative, outstanding bravery, and strong personal leadership, despite overwhelming enemy superiority in both numbers and firepower, enabled him to render a distinguished served in the destruction of enemy resistance. First Sergeant Funk’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Captain Wesley D. Harris
Unit: Company C, 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 20 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Wesley D. Harris (0-453241), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Company C, 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 20 September 1944, in the Netherlands. Captain Harris, while under heavy enemy fire, personally directed the loading and movement of assault boats which enabled the 504th Parachute Infantry to successfully cross the Waal River and establish the vital Nijmegen bridgehead. Crossing the river in the face of heavy enemy machine gun, 20-mm., and artillery fire in one of the first assault boats of the initial assault wave, Captain Harris was painfully wounded in the back and arm but continued to supervise the movement and unloading of the boats. After returning to the south bank of the river he refused medical evacuation but effected rapid and thorough reorganization of the remaining boats and engineer personnel for the crossing of the second wave. While leading the second wave a pontoon near his boat was hit by enemy fire and capsized, but Captain Harris plunged into the river and despite his wounded condition assisted 3 men to other boats. Captain Harris then returned to the south bank and while supervising loading of the third wave, fainted for the loss of blood. Captain Harris’ intrepid direction, heroic leadership, and superior professional ability contributed directly to the success of the bridgehead operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions and standards of the United States Army.

Name: Staff Sergeant Alvin H. Henderson
Unit: Company A, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 17 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Alvin H. Henderson (38271077), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 September 1944, in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Staff Sergeant Henderson was platoon sergeant of the 2d Platoon, Company A, 508th Parachute Infantry, and while on patrol in the city of Nijmegen killed two Germans in hand-to-hand fighting and bayoneted four others. He led his patrol in the accomplishment of three separate missions during the attack by his battalion, during which time he personally destroyed four enemy machine gun positions and assisted in the capture of six prisoners. When the point of the battalion advance became pinned down by enemy machine gun fire in the city of Nijmegen, Staff Sergeant Henderson led a squad from the advance guard and pushed forward, destroying the enemy position. He attacked a circular plaza to his front and cleared it of enemy. Later, at the bridge, he personally destroyed two machine gun positions and caused the crew of the third to withdraw. During this attack he was killed by enemy fire. The gallant and courageous actions of Staff Sergeant Henderson contributed greatly to the destruction of enemy resistance within the city and rendered a most vital and distinguished service in the accomplishment of the division mission. Staff Sergeant Henderson’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Sergeant William E. Kero
Unit: Company C, 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 20 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William E. Kero (36603251), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 20 September 1944. Sergeant Kero’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Private First Class Joseph H. Koss
Unit: Company F, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Beek-Ubbergen (Wercheren), 20 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph H. Koss (13056883), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 20 September 1944, in the vicinity of Wercheren, the Netherlands. During a fierce enemy attack supported by tanks against his company’s defensive positions, Private First Class Koss, acting as an assistant rifle squad leader, directed the movement of his squad’s light machine gun from its position of cover to an exposed position affording a better field of fire against the onrushing infantry. After an approximate belt and a half of ammunition had been fired with effective results, an enemy tank not less than 100 yards distant shelled the position with point blank fire, and with the third round wounded both Private First Class Koss and his gunner and put the gun temporarily out of action. Although painfully wounded, Private First Class Koss fired upon the enemy with his Thompson submachine gun with telling effects while his gunner corrected the stoppage. Despite the continued point blank fire from the tank Private First Class Koss continued to fire for at least 15 minutes after being wounded until he fell mortally wounded from one of the tank shells. His utter fearlessness and unselfish conduct in the face of overwhelming odds and certain death so inspired all his comrades that a superior enemy force was driven from the battlefield with heavy losses. Private First Class Koss’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Sergeant Lyle K. Kumler
Unit: Company H, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Beek-Ubbergen, 17-22 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lyle K. Kumler (16161859), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company H, 3d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces during the period 17 to 22 September 1944, on the Dutch-German frontier. On 19 September 1944, Sergeant Kumler destroyed a German machine gun position which had pinned his platoon to the ground and halted the company advance. Later, in the town of Beek he drew fire from an enemy strong point which was holding up the attack, in order to allow an ATRL [antitank rocket launcher] team to maneuver into position to fire into the building. On 20 September 1944, he established a base of fire in support of a second attack by his company, and moved about his position which was under fire flat trajectory artillery in order to better observed his supporting fire. When one flank of his company was pinned by the fire of an enemy machine gun, Sergeant Kumler ordered his second in command to direct the supporting fire while he led two men in an attack upon the enemy gun. Placing the two riflemen to cover him, he attacked the enemy gun and destroyed it. His aggressive leadership was largely responsible for the final success of his company, and contributed a valuable service to the security of the regimental sector. Sergeant Kumler’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Sergeant Charles E. Nau
Unit: Company B, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Heumen, 17 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles E. Nau (13145277), Corporal, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 September 1944 near Heumen, the Netherlands. As a rifle squad leader, Sergeant Nau was leading his squad in a daring frontal assault by his platoon on an important highway bridge 5 miles southwest of Nijmegen, the Netherlands, when his platoon leader fell seriously wounded. Completely disregarding his own safety and exposing himself to withering small arms fire which at times cut his clothing, Sergeant Nau immediately assumed control of the assault element and led it boldly across the bridge. During the course of the attack his squad killed or wounded 6 of the enemy. The impetus of the assault inspired by Sergeant Nau’s Heroic leadership swept the enemy from the bridge, prevented them from detonating the prepared demolitions laid to destroy the objective, and enabled follow-up troops to quickly mop up and consolidate the vital bridge objective. By his intrepid direction, heroic leadership, and aggressive attitude, Sergeant Nau set an inspiring example for his men. His personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: First Lieutenant Lloyd L. Polette
Unit: Company F, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Honinghutje, 17-18 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lloyd L. Polette (0-1309822), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 17 and 18 September 1944, near Nijmegen, the Netherlands. First Lieutenant Polette, platoon leader of Company F, 508th Parachute Infantry, by his courage and intrepidy, destroyed two enemy gun positions and led a determined assault upon an important bridge. On 17 September 1944, Lieutenant Polette led his platoon as advance party of his battalion on the advance through the outskirts of Nijmegen to the battalion objective, southwest of the city. He destroyed a 20-millimeter antiaircraft gun, which was placing effective fire upon the column, by moving to a position near the gun and attacking the position with an explosive grenade. At another point along the battalion route of advance, two enemy machine guns threatened the column with heavy fire. He directed his platoon in the destruction of one gun while he destroyed the second with a bazooka and a phosphorous grenade. On 18 September 1944, he led his platoon in an attack upon a bridge near Nijmegen, an important bridge crossing the Maas-Waal Canal.When his platoon was pinned down by enemy automatic weapons fire, Lieutenant Polette remained in an exposed position where he could best observe the enemy and direct the fire of his platoon. Although his automatic weapons were knocked out by German mortars, he continued to press the attack. After a quick reorganization of his depleted platoon, he led a second spirited attack which seized the position. The conduct of Lieutenant Polette inspired much confidence within his platoon. His willingness to personally lead every assault, and his complete indifference to danger was responsible for the success of his platoon mission. First Lieutenant Polette’s gallant leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Staff Sergeant Clarence Prager
Unit: Company I, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Groesbeek, 17-18 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Clarence Prager (15114194), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 and 18 September 1944, in Holland. Staff Sergeant Prager, with a small combat team consisting of an eight man light machine gun section, a bazooka team, and approximately thirteen riflemen, established four strongpoints in enemy territory for the protection of the successful glider landings in the Netherlands. Staff Sergeant Prager led his men along the planned route and at three of the four positions encountered determined resistance. At the first position he personally destroyed two machine gun positions. By effective participation and dominant leadership ability he directed his men in the destruction of the enemy and the establishment and consolidation of four strong positions of his own. The final strongpoint was set up on in the German held Reichswald, by a superior enemy. To insure the maintenance of his first three positions, Staff Sergeant Prager ordered his BAR team back to the third strongpoint and alone held off the German assault with Thompson submachine gun fire at point blank range. The conspicuously superior leadership and invincible courage displayed by Staff Sergeant Prager assured the security of the glider landing zone. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Lieutenant-Colonel Teddy A. Sanford
Unit: Headquarters 1st Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Mook, 23 September 1944

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Teddy Hollis Sanford (ASN: 0-277810), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while commanding the 1st Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 23 September 1944. On that date, he quickly assembled the battalion which he commanded, which had landed by glider, and, working without the services of most of his staff, accomplished the task of relieving a battalion in minimum time through his personal efforts and supervision. Colonel Sanford’s battalion had the mission of defending a frontage much greater than that normally assigned to a unit of its size, but due to his thorough knowledge of his troops and of the situation and to his complete disregard for his own safety in making personal reconnaissance and in visiting front line positions, in spite of heavy shell fire, to encourage his men and to insure best possible disposition of troops, his battalion presented an impenetrable defense to all enemy counterattacks for a period of eight days. At 0530 hours, 23 September 1944, Colonel Sanford’s battalion attacked eastward from Mook, the Netherlands. Colonel Sanford, although suffering with a high fever, went forward with the assault companies and personally directed every phase of the attack, adjusting artillery and mortar fire, directing communications, evacuation and supply as well as personally directing the fire of two supporting tanks into enemy strong points. When one of his companies was surprised by and enemy strong point and badly disorganized he, without thought for the danger involved, effected a reorganization of the company, replacing the company commander and other officers who had become casualties. By nightfall, he had stabilized his lines and was able to hold the ground gained during the day. The courage and perseverance of Colonel Sanford were directly responsible for the success of the battalion’s operation and were of untold value to the holding of very important ground for the Allied Forces. His bravery, coolness and magnificent leadership are recognized and respected by every member of his command and reflect the highest traditions of the United States Army.

Name: Staff Sergeant Stanley E. Stevens
Unit: Company G, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 18 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Stanley E. Stevens (39399951), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 3d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 18 September 1944, at Nijmegen, the Netherlands. In an attack by Company G into the city of Nijmegen, to seize and hold the highway bridge within that city, Staff Sergeant Stevens led the point of his company advance with such courage and aggressiveness that his company was able to continue its attack without delay. Staff Sergeant Stevens led his men in clearing snipers from several houses. At one point he attacked a building single-handed, and killed two Germans manning a machine gun while another group cleared a building across the street. After the company had advanced farther into the city, at least two German machine guns began firing into the column, pinning down the entire company. Staff Sergeant Stevens maneuvered his point from the line of enemy fire. He established a base of fire to cover the German positions and without other assistance, assaulted one position with sub-machine gun and grenades, destroying the position. He succeeded in diverting the fire of the enemy upon himself and permitted his company to neutralize the position. During the action he was mortally wounded. The exemplary conduct and outstanding bravery of Staff Sergeant Stevens, and his willingness to close with the enemy, contributed in large measure to the success of his company attack and rendered a distinguished service in the accomplishment of his company and battalion mission. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Colonel Reuben H. Tucker
Unit: Regimental Headquarters 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 20 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Reuben H. Tucker (0-19894), Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 20 September 1944, near Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Completely disregarding his own safety, Colonel Tucker personally directed the successful operation which enabled the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment to successfully cross the treacherous Waal River, and by his continuous presence with the forward elements, as well as his exemplary judgment and brilliant leadership, inspired his command to the early establishment of the vital Nijmegen bridgehead. Colonel Tucker’s contact with the assault units was maintained in the face of intense artillery, mortar, and small arms fire, and he repeatedly exposed himself to this enemy fire in order to confer with the officers leading the attack and to keep them informed to the enemy’s situation. After all assigned objectives had been overrun and seized and when certain elements of his battalions were badly split up and intermingled as a result of the bitter and piecemeal fighting, Colonel Tucker calmly and courageously assumed personal command and effected prompt reorganization, thereby insuring an adequate perimeter defense which repelled all subsequent counterattacks. By his intrepid direction, heroic leadership, and superior professional ability, Colonel Tucker set an inspiring example for his command and his gallant leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: First Lieutenant John P. Foley
Unit: Company A, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Beek-Ubbergen, 19-24 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John P. Foley, O-1287332, First Lieutenant, Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, from 19 September to 24 September 1944, at Wyler-Mear, Germany. During an attack, Lt. Foley moved with his attacking groups, coordinating their movement and directing their fire with such complete disregard to enemy fire that he imbued his men with much courage and daring. He controlled the action of his three platoons with assurance, leading the attack and driving the enemy from the hill. He reorganized his company and staved off six vicious attacks by a determined enemy while the company position was raked with artillery and automatic fire. The second day, enemy infiltration had encircled his position and cut off all communication and supply routes to battalion. A redistribution of ammunition revealed only five rounds per rifle and none for automatic weapons. When called upon by the enemy to surrender his position., Lt. Foley defiantly refused, and continued to hold the hill. For five days, Lt. Foley defended his position under ceaseless artillery and mortar bombardment, repelling attacks by vastly superior forces and countering aggressive enemy patrol action, both day and night. The tireless, determined efforts of Lt. Foley in the attack and subsequently in the conduct of his exemplary leadership, gave much encouragement to his men and played a large part in the stubborn defense of his position against a numerically superior enemy. This accomplishment effectively weakened the enemy in this sector and hastened their eventual withdrawal. Lt. Foley rendered a vital and distinguished service in the defense against German offensive action aimed at seizing the key terrain south of Nijmegen. His conduct reflects the finest traditions of the United States Army. Enter military service from Vineland, New Jersey.

Note: the tactical engagement that is described in the citation took place at the Devil’s Hill and is described in the article of the 82nd Airborne Division during Operation Market Garden in the articles section of the website. Wyler-Mear, Germany = the Devil’s hill or hill 75,9.

Name: Lieutenant-Colonel Benjamin H. Vandervoort
Unit: Headquarters 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 17-23 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Benjamin H. Vandervoort (0-22715), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces in the Netherlands from 17 to 23 September 1944. On 17 September the Second Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry, Lieutenant Colonel Vandervoort commanding, landed near Groesbeek, Holland. Lieutenant Colonel Vandervoort hastened the reorganization and advanced with his leading element to capture the initial battalion objective in three and one half hours. On the afternoon of the 19th of September 1944, the Second Battalion moved into Nijmegen to attack prepared defensive positions including dug in anti-tank and machine gun nests and camouflaged snipers posts. Lieutenant Colonel Vandervoort supervised and directed the assault while continually under direct fire from these snipers. A coordinated attack was launched on the afternoon of 21 September 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Vandervoort established himself at a forward and exposed position to personally supervise and coordinate the progress of the Infantry and attached armored elements. Throughout the entire engagement, his total disregard for his own safety made possible the continued coordination which led to the final seizure of the bridge. Lieutenant Colonel Vandervoort’s coolness, outstanding courage and initiative, and his resolute leadership contributed to the success of the mission of seizing intact the railway and highway bridges. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Sergeant Charles A. Gushue
Unit: Company A, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Nijmegen, 17-18 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles A. Gushue (13125559), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 to 18 September 1944. Sergeant Gushue’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Corporal Walter J. Bednarz
Unit: Headquarters company, 3rd Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Beek, 17 September 1944

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Walter J. Bednarz (20109683), Corporal, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 17 September 1944, in Holland. Corporal Bednarz, as leader of a squad of eight men, was given the mission of establishing and defending a roadblock at important road junction at Beek, Holland. A patrol of 18 German parachutists armed with machine guns and machine pistols attacked and attempted to destroy the position. Corporal Bednarz, upon seeing that he could not fire on this patrol without endangering the lives of a group of civilians directly between his position and the enemy, without regard for his own safety, leapt from his dug-in position and rushed to meet the oncoming enemy. At point blank range he sprayed the attackers with submachine gun fire. His action in single-handedly attacking a vastly superior enemy force in such a manner required the highest type of courage. The unhesitating action of Corporal Bednarz in a critical and unusual situation saved the lives of a number of innocent persons, rendered a most distinguished service by the destruction of an unknown number of enemy and strengthened the security of the position. Corporal Bednarz was killed in this action. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Name: Sergeant Shelton W. Dustin
Unit: Company B, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Heumen, 17 September 1944

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant [then Private First Class} Shelton W. Dustin (ASN: 11027924), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 September 1944 near Heumen, Holland. As an acting rifle squad leader, Sergeant Dustin courageously led his 8-man squad in an assault on a strongly fortified control island, which seriously menaced the security of a vital highway bridge, which had just been captured by other elements of his company. Unmindful of all personal dangers and cognizant of the necessity for clearing the island of all enemy, Sergeant Dustin led his squad through intense small arms fire to within 25 yards of the enemy’s forward position. At this point the enemy, numbering approximately 45, retreated to a house and air raid shelter in the center of the island. Vigorously pressing the assault, Sergeant Dustin, spearheading his squad’s attack, moved to within 10 yards of the house into which he threw a Gammon grenade killing 3 of the enemy that had taken refuge there. Almost immediately a shot was fired at him from the air raid shelter. Sergeant Dustin whirled and threw a Gammon grenade into the air raid shelter killing 3 more Germans. Following up the explosion, he rushed into the entrance of the shelter forcing the remaining 39 enemies to surrender. By his exemplary bravery and superior leadership, Sergeant Dustin accounted for 45 of the enemy and insured the security of the vital bridge objective. His indomitable courage and aggressive leadership set an inspiring example for his men, thereby reflecting the highest traditions of the military service.

During Operation Market Garden the American army awarded various awards for valor. The two citations for the Congressional Medal of Honor (the highest award for valor) and the citations for the Distinguished Service Cross (the second highest award for valor) can be found on this page.

An added note: this page is still under construction. Even though we strive to make this list as complete as possible, we are aware that some citations are still in archives and haven’t popped up to the surface yet. If you have a citation for valor and you want to share it with us so we could publish it on this page, do not hesitate to contact us.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION:
If you have a citation that is missing from this page, please contact us.

Name: Private First Class Walter J. Muszynski
Unit: Company I, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Place and date: Lent, 20 September 1944

For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 20 September 1944 about one mile north of Nijmegen, Holland. As a light machine gunner, Private First Class Muszynski crossed the Waal River in one of the lead boats of the initial assault element during the Waal bridgehead operation. As heavy machine gun and 20mm flak fire greeted the forward elements, Private First Class Muszynski quickly mounted his machine gun in the bow of his boat and directed heavy fire on the enemy dug in on the riverbank. Although fully exposed to enemy fire, which wounded two of his comrades, Private First Class Muszynski disregarded all possibilities of danger and remained at his precarious post. Upon reaching the opposite bank, Private First Class Muszynski maintained a continuous cover of protective fire for the movement of his squad to the main dike and from the dike to the railroad embankment, accounting for at least twenty enemy dead and wounded. At times he fired his machine gun from the hip, while moving forward as to keep pace with his squad. At the railroad embankment, heavy opposition from self-propelled flak guns was encountered, and one of the nearby flanking guns knocked Private First Class Muszynski’s machine gun from his arms, destroying it. Unhesitatingly, and without orders from anyone, Private First Class Muszynski crept to within fifteen yards of the gun position directing devastating flanking fire on his platoon, and knocked it out with hand grenades, killing four of the enemy. During this phase of action, Private First Class Muszynski fell mortally wounded from enemy rifle fire. By his brave determination and valorous execution of his duties at the sacrifice of his own life, Private First Class Muszynski set an inspiring example for all his comrades and contributed directly to the successful establishment of the vital Waal bridgehead.