8th Armored Division - Silver Star Awards

49th Armored Infantry Battalion - Silver Star Awards

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G.O. No. 12, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 March 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Cooke, Lionel W.
Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Lionel W. Cooke (33096142), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. While serving as Platoon Sergeant of an assault gun platoon, Sergeant Cooke was delivering supporting fire for an infantry company. During the action he noticed that an infantryman a short distance from his tank was severely wounded. He left the safety of his tank and under a hail of enemy machine gun and small arms fire, he lifted the wounded man to the bustle of the tank. Then shielding the man behind the turret, Sergeant Cooke directed the tank to a covered position where medical aid men took charge of the casualty. Sergeant Cooke acted without consideration for his own safety and his actions reflect credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Entered Military Service from Virginia.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 12, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 March, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Lowry, William C.
Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army
Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to William C. Lowry (0-2010954), Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Lieutenant (then Technical Sergeant) Lowry was commanding the first platoon of his company. The platoon on his right was held up by enemy action, thus exposing his men to flank fire. Lieutenant Lowry, with two men, set out under a hail of small arms fire to take an enemy strong point from which the fire was coming. En route to the enemy-occupied building, he individually knocked out an 88-mm. anti-aircraft gun. He entered the enemy-occupied house under a hail of fire and returned with an enemy officer. He forced the German officer to order the remaining occupants to surrender. A total of fifty prisoners were thus accounted for. Throughout the mission, Lieutenant Lowry displayed courage and initiative with complete disregard for his own safety. His gallantry was beyond the call of duty and reflected credit upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States. Hometown: Dayton, Ohio.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 12, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 March, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
McFadyen, William A.
Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to William A. McFadyen (35403503), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Sergeant McFadyen was Platoon Sergeant of a platoon ordered to seize houses of an enemy-held town. During the advance under heavy enemy fire, Sergeant McFadyen stood on the hood of a half-track and fed ammunition into a machine gun. Later in the action when members of his platoon were cut off, they barricaded themselves in a building. Twice during the night Sergeant McFadyen left the building, exposing himself to enemy sniper and machine gun fire, to personally assure the safety of his companions. Sergeant McFadyen constantly acted without consideration for his own safety. He displayed gallantry that was an inspiration to his men and reflected credit on the Military Service of the United States. Hometown: St. Clairsville, Ohio.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 12, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 March, 1945, Page 2 - Award of Silver Star
Roseborough, Morgan G.
Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army
Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Morgan G. Roseborough (0-22681), Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. During the attack on an enemy-held city, Colonel Roseborough, commander of a task force, continually exposed himself to small arms, machine gun and 88-mm. fire in order to maintain communications with his subordinate commanders. When his tank failed, he dismounted and personally assisted in getting it started. He completed the action by directing a platoon in its attack on its final objective. Later he took command of a company and during its attack he continually exposed himself to artillery and small arms fire in order to maintain communications. His actions were inspirational to all members of his command and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Forces of the United States. Hometown: Mississippi.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 15, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 March, 1945, Page 1 - Award of Silver Star - Posthumous
Beard, Warren E.
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Warren E. Beard (12071519), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. During a combat operation, Sergeant Beard discovered a wounded member of his platoon two hundred yards from his own covered position. With utter disregard for his own safety, he braved heavy mortar and artillery fire to move his comrade to a place of safety. On the return to the original position, Sergeant Beard was mortally wounded. His gallantry and devotion to duty reflect the highest traditions of the Military Forces of the United States. Hometown: Queens, New York.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 15, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 March, 1945, Page 2 - Award of Silver Star
Clark, Elmer W.
Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5 - 10, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Elmer W. Clark (0-1317372), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany during the period from 5 March to 10 March 1945. As Company Commander, Captain Clark was habitually found with the assault platoon of his company, directing their advance. In order to keep in contact with the leading elements of his company, Captain Clark was frequently exposed to enemy artillery, mortar, machine gun and small arms fire. While leading his organization in action, he refused to move back, remaining with the leading elements until their mission was accomplished. His outstanding courage and leadership was an inspiration to all and reflects great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 15, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 March, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Groft, John R.
Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to John R. Groft (33873377), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Sergeant (then Private First Class) Groft crawled for more than eight hundred yards under intense enemy machine gun, artillery and mortar fire to lead twelve of his fellow soldiers to safety. He volunteered for this action after witnessing the unsuccessful efforts of others to reach the stranded man. Sergeant Groft's complete disregard for his own safety and his exemplary conduct under fire reflect greatest credit both upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States. Hometown: Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 15, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 March, 1945, Page 2 - Award of Silver Star
Rogers, William J.
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 10, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to William J. Rogers (11083935), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 10 March 1945. Staff Sergeant (then Sergeant) Rogers left a protected position to rescue members of a tank crew. The tank had been knocked out by enemy fire and immediately burst into flames. Sergeant Rogers, without consideration for his own safety, exposed himself to the enemy fire to effect the rescue. His deed was further complicated by the exploding, stowed ammunition. His courage and heroism were beyond the call of duty and reflect credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: New Hampshire.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 15, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 March, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Wheatley, Walter L.
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: February 21 - March 10, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Walter L. Wheatley (16146231), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Holland and Germany during the period 21 February 1945 to 10 March 1945. Sergeant Wheatley personally laid and maintained telephone lines between the battalion and company CPs. On numerous occasions, when artillery and mortar fire had forced others to take cover, Sergeant Wheatley was busy checking his wires and repairing breaks. He was frequently exposed to enemy fire. His devotion to duty and courage were an inspiration to all and reflect credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Chicago, Illinois.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 15, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 March, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Zuccarella, Rocco M.
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Rocco M. Zuccarella (42059001), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Under intense enemy fire Sergeant (then Private) Zuccarella covered members of his platoon with machine gun fire while they took cover. He then advanced 800 yards under machine gun, artillery, mortar and small arms fire to lead twelve men to safety. Sergeant Zuccarella's actions reflect greatest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: New York, NY.
Notes: Staff Sergeant Zuccarella was subsequently Killed in Action on April 8, 1945.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 20, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 April, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Crumley, Douglas E.
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Douglas E. Crumley (31328102), Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Corporal (then Private First Class) Crumley, serving as a messenger, drove his one-quarter ton vehicle across an open field under vicious enemy fire to aid a wounded companion. After administering aid he placed him on the hood of his vehicle and carried him to safety. This gallant act, beyond the call of duty, reflects great credit on Corporal Crumley and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: St. Ellenville, New York.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 20, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 April, 1945, Page 4 - Award of Silver Star
Gool, Anthony
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Anthony Gool (33434972), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Private First Class (then Private) Gool was a member of a group pinned down by machine gun and small arms fire. Ordered to withdraw, he carried a badly wounded officer across open terrain to safety. He continued to administer first aid to the wounded throughout the night. His actions reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Forces of the United States. Hometown: Erie, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 20, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 April, 1945, Page 4 - Award of Silver Star
Masarik, Emil W.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Emil W. Masarik (35921680), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Forced to withdraw, Private Masarik carried to safety a severely wounded officer. This he accomplished despite heavy enemy fire. Throughout the night he administered first aid to the wounded. Private Masarik's courage and devotion beyond the call of duty reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Maple Heights, Ohio.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 20, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 April, 1945, Page 1 - Award of Silver Star - Posthumous
Prokop, Nicholas J.
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Nicholas J. Prokop (33594448), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy in Germany on 5 March 1945. Sergeant Prokop, a squad leader, was assigned the mission of seizing enemy-occupied houses. He led his men through intense enemy fire to the point of action. It was necessary for Sergeant Prokop to return and reorganize those who had been cut off by machine gun fire. Exposing himself to accomplish this, he was wounded by small arms fire. Disregarding his wound and refusing aid, he continued. While leading his squad in the ensuing action, Sergeant Prokop was mortally wounded. His extreme devotion to duty, without thought of self, is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 20, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 22 April, 1945, Page 3 - Award of Silver Star
Rankin, James C.
Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army
Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: February 25, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to James C. Rankin (0-392340), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Holland on 25 February 1945. While leading his men in the battle for Voorsel, Holland, Captain (then First Lieutenant) Rankin suffered a serious leg injury from a "schu-mine". He refused treatment until the town had been taken and defenses set up. His bravery and determination were an inspiration to the men of his command. Captain Rankin's actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 24, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 3 May, 1945, Page 4 - Award of Silver Star
Walker, Herbert A.
Private, U.S. Army
Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 2 - 4, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Herbert A. Walker (35736424), Private, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany from 2 April to 4 April 1945. Private Walker volunteered to serve on a two-man reconnaissance patrol into enemy territory. He crawled to within ten yards of 200 enemy soldiers, obtained vital information and then returned to his platoon with the information as well as two prisoners. Later he went out with a three-man patrol and aided in the capture of an enemy hospital, eight prisoners, the destruction of a Tiger tank and the clearing of houses over a large area. This action was carried out under intense hostile fire. Private Walker's initiative and personal bravery, beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States. Hometown: Highland Park, Michigan.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 25, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 4 May, 1945, Page 2 - Award of Silver Star
Burke, Timothy J.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 11, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Timothy J. Burke (31303666), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, in Germany on 11 April 1945. Private Burke led his squad, in the face of intense enemy fire, to a strong point. Clearing it of the enemy, he quickly set up counter defenses. He then made a personal reconnaissance to locate enemy gun positions. Capturing three prisoners, he returned with the prisoners and the necessary information. Later, when fire was so heavy that evacuation of the wounded man was delayed, Private Burke crawled two hundred yards under constant small arms fire to reach a wounded squad member and evacuate him. His actions reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Swampscott, Massachusetts.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 25, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 4 May, 1945, Page 1 - Award of Silver Star
Hebbler, George R., Sr.
Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 2 - 8, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to George R. Hebbler, Sr. (38616100), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany from 2 April to 8 April 1945. When his company was completely surrounded, Sergeant Hebbler crawled several hundred yards through the enemy lines to contact his battalion command post. Later, while in the advance guard of an armored column he discovered an enemy 20-mm. gun and knocked it out before it could be put into action. He led an advance patrol assigned the mission of drawing enemy fire and uncovered positions that would have seriously hampered the advance of the platoon. During this period he volunteered to lead a patrol into enemy territory to locate wounded and identify the dead. The courageous actions of Sergeant Hebbler reflects the greatest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Louisiana.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 27, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 6 May, 1945, Page 1 - Award of Silver Star
Hastigan, Robert S.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 2 - 7, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Robert S. Hastigan (39723377), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany from 2 April to 7 April 1945. When his company was surrounded and cut off, Private Hastigan volunteered to go on patrol through the enemy lines to contact and guide reinforcements. Later he volunteered to serve with a scout group for a task force. The group captured crews of two guns, permitting the uninterrupted advance of the column. Later the same day Private Hastigan volunteered to serve with another scout group. Their mission was to determine the strength and disposition of enemy forces. During this mission, Private Hastigan was seriously wounded. His disregard for personal safety and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States. Hometown: Van Nuys, California.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 46 Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 7 June, 1945, Page 1 - Award of Silver Star
Edmunds, Kenneth M.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Kenneth M. Edmunds (33845121), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. While his platoon was pinned down by heavy machine gun and small arms fire Private Edmunds went to the aid of a wounded member of the platoon. While administering aid to this man, he observed another casualty nearby. He immediately went to his aid, refusing assistance from another squad member. When this squad member was later wounded, Private Edmunds again left a covered position, removed him to cover and rendered aid. His quick action and disregard for his own safety was instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow soldiers and reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Virginia.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 49, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 20 June, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star - Posthumous
Unger, Irwin M.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 17, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Irwin M. Unger (42064656), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 17 April 1945. During an attack on an enemy-occupied woods, Private Unger's platoon was pinned down by intense small arms and machine gun fire. Private Unger, seeing a badly wounded comrade, left the safety of his position and went to his aid. He rendered first aid and through his efforts the wounded soldier was evacuated. While thus exposed to enemy fire, a burst from an enemy machine gun mortally wounded Private Unger. His outstanding bravery and concern for his comrades are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: New York, New York.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 50, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 21 June, 1945, Page 2. - Award of Silver Star
Biagini, Sylvio
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 8 & April 3, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Sylvio Biagini (33440740), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 8 March 1945 and 3 April 1945. When his squad was pinned down by superior enemy forces, Sergeant Biagini moved about under direct observation and fire in order to locate the enemy positions and direct fire of the squad and a supporting tank. When the tank was knocked out he covered evacuation of the wounded tank commander and the wounded of his squad. Sergeant Biagini then went to the aid of another wounded man, rendering aid and carrying him to cover under intense enemy fire. Later, in another action, he led his squad in the attack on an enemy strong point, showing great initiative and courage in carrying out this mission. After taking the strong point he opened fire with rifle grenades against an enemy tank, continuing this action despite the fact he, himself was wounded, until he was relieved. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 50, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 21 June, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star
Frazier, Clovis M.
Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 9, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Clovis M. Frazier (0-2012092), Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 9 April 1945. When his tank was knocked out and part of the crew wounded, Lieutenant Frazier mounted to the deck to man a machine gun, exposing himself to heavy small arms fire. When the tank was again struck by anti-tank fire he ordered his men to abandon it. He returned to move a wounded man to cover under intense fire. Learning there was another wounded man in the tank he returned a second time. He then reorganized his platoon and under continued heavy fire, led them into an enemy town to complete its capture. His outstanding leadership and courage were an inspiration to all and reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Cedartown, Georgia.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 50, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 21 June, 1945, Page 2. - Award of Silver Star
Read, Earl W.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Earl W. Read (39342215), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Private Read, though pinned down by small arms and automatic weapons fire, continued to operate his radio, enabling his company commander to control his company. It was necessary for him to expose himself frequently to enemy fire, which he did without regard for his own safety. On another occasion he left cover of a building under heavy enemy fire to obtain better reception and maintain communications with a task force. Later he left a covered position and completely exposed to sniper fire, transmitted instructions to supporting tanks. His courage and devotion beyond the call of duty resulted in his platoon's success with minimum casualties. His actions reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Medford, Oregon.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 50, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 21 June, 1945, Page 2. - Award of Silver Star
Rutkowski, Edward J.
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5 & April 9, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Edward J. Rutkowski (0-2010955), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945 and 9 April 1945. When his platoon leader was killed during an advance, Lieutenant Rutkowski quickly reorganized the platoon. He moved the mortar and machine gun squads into position under intense enemy fire. Then taking five men he proceeded by a covered route into the enemy lines. He forced the surrender of over thirty enemy. Continuing with the same men he took forty prisoners at a nearby enemy strongpoint. Later he led his platoon, dismounted, into an enemy town, gaining a foothold that enabled the balance of the force to occupy it. His coolness, leadership and courage were an inspiration to all and reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Lockport, Illinois.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 56, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 28 June, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star - Posthumous
Koch, John G.
Private, U.S. Army
49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to John G. Koch (36913196), Private, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Private Koch was advancing, dismounted, in support of a tank attack. He pushed forward aggressively, without regard for intense machine gun fire which pinned down men on both sides of him. When his platoon encountered intense direct fire and hand grenade attacks, it was necessary to withdraw to a nearby building. While moving to this position Private Koch was mortally wounded but managed to reach the cover of a ditch. When aid arrived his chief concern was to direct assistance to a wounded officer. Not until he had been assured the officer had been cared for, would he allow himself to be moved. Realizing that silence was imperative, he remained quiet despite the pain of his wounds. His courage and high regard for the welfare of others reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Peoria, Illinois.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 76, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 July, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star
Buban, Elmer E.
Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 3, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Elmer E. Buban (33670738), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 3 April 1945. While preparing a position as security outpost, the squad of which Sergeant (then Private First Class) Buban was a member, was attacked by a heavy enemy force. One machine gun was put out of action. Without regard for his own safety, Sergeant Buban continued to man the remaining weapon and halted the counterattack in his sector. When the squad moved to a house and set up a defensive position, he remained on guard at a window throughout the night warding off enemy attempts to throw grenades and place rocket fire in the building. His courage and disregard for his own safety reflect the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Munhall, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 76, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 July, 1945, Page 3. - Award of Silver Star
Kroninger, Donald C.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, April 2 & 12, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Donald C. Kroninger (33836793), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945, 2 April and 12 April 1945. On 5 March Private Kroninger was personally responsible for the surrender of twenty enemy who were endangering his platoon's advance. On another occasion he returned across open fields under fire to recover equipment left behind by wounded comrades. Later he manned an automatic rifle after the rifleman had been wounded. On 12 April his aggressive actions forced surrender of several heavily armed enemy who were defending a house in the outskirts of a town. Although wounded on two different occasions, he refused evacuation on both occasions in order to continue with the action. His courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 76, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 July, 1945, Page 2. - Award of Silver Star
Malone, Robert A.
Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 3, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Robert A. Malone (34570343), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 3 April 1945. Sergeant Malone, Assistant Squad Leader of a machine gun squad, was placing a security outpost. When the squad was fired upon Sergeant Malone quickly reorganized his men and returned fire, driving the enemy back. When the squad was ordered to a cellar for protection from an expected artillery barrage he remained on guard outside. While thus occupied Sergeant Malone was wounded. Ignoring his wound, he organized his men for a defense and remained on guard throughout the night. His courage and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Georgia.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 76, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 27 July, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star
Mancuso, Andrew J.
Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army
Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 8, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Andrew J. Mancuso (32193682), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 8 March 1945. While his mortar platoon was supporting an infantry company, Sergeant Mancuso reconnoitered a route over which he could move ammunition to the mortar position. While crossing open terrain, the supply patrol was subjected to intense mortar and machine gun fire. As they were nearing a completion of their mission, Sergeant Mancuso saw that a nearby rifleman was wounded. He left the only available cover and went to the aid of the wounded infantryman. Under a hail of enemy fire he dressed the man's wounds, then carried him to a sheltered position, remaining with him until this position drew fire. He then carried the wounded rifleman across 150 yards of open terrain to a small woods where he was delivered to medical aid men. Sergeant Mancuso's actions reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: New York.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 86, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 10 August, 1945, Page 2. - Award of Silver Star
Mazo, John
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: April 3, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to John Mazo (16064627), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 3 April 1945. Sergeant Mazo and his squad had taken shelter in a cellar from an expected artillery barrage. When the enemy attacked, he organized his men to defend their position and personally guarded the door, preventing the enemy from making a successful charge. He then crawled up on two enemy machine gun positions, wiping out enemy troops manning the guns, and recovering the guns. After Sergeant Mazo had directed a successful defense of the position for six hours the enemy withdrew. His courage and devotion to duty without regard for his own safety reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: New York.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 86, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 10 August, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star - Posthumous
Righini, Charles J.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 3 & 7, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Charles J. Righini (34821198), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 3 March and 7 March 1945. Private Righini was Scout for a rifle squad. On 3 March 1945 he aided the first platoon leader and two other men in the capture of 35 prisoners who had been manning anti-tank guns. To accomplish this mission they entered an enemy strong point, under heavy fire from other positions. On 7 March 1945 he scouted the platoon's objective. After this position was taken he voluntarily went beyond the platoon's zone of action to wipe out snipers in nearby buildings. He captured one prisoner and returned with valuable information on location and strength of enemy positions. His courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 95, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 7 September, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star
Look, Edward H.
Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army
Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Edward H. Look (0-1297061), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Captain Look, a Battalion S-2 officer, led a platoon forward against an enemy town in the face of intense fire. He moved a wounded officer to cover. Cut off from his organization, he then led his men across open terrain, under intense fire, to a sheltered position. There he tended the wounded and maintained the morale of his men until aid arrived the following day. Captain Look's leadership and gallantry reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Providence, Rhode Island.

To General Orders

G.O. No. 97, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 10 September, 1945, Page 1. - Award of Silver Star - Posthumous
Smith, Clarence E.
Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army
Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division
Date of Action: February 25 - March 5, 1945

Citation:
The Silver Star is presented to Clarence E. Smith (0-393820), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Holland and Germany from 25 February 1945 to 5 March 1945. During the advance across the Roer River at Hilforth, Captain Smith directed the operations, remaining with the lead rifle platoon. When the leading platoon was pinned down near Lintfort, he went forward on foot and led them to safety. In the attack on Winterswick, Germany, Captain Smith dismounted to lead his men into the town. He then continued to direct the action from his tank and while so doing was killed by a burst of mortar or artillery. His inspiring leadership, gallantry and utter disregard for his own safety set an example for all. His actions reflect the greatest credit on himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States. Hometown: Marion County, West Virginia.

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