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Barnhardt, Charles E.

Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Private
Unit:
Company H, 3rd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army
Awarded on:
November 30th, 1944
"For gallantry in action on 1 and 2 October 1944 about one mile from ****, Holland. Private Barnhardt, Bazooka Gunner, Company H, 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, inflicted severe casualties on an enemy force which attempted to surround a roadblock. A reinforced group of German parachutists launched a fierce flanking attack against the block. Private Barnhardt killed four and wounded three enemy and himself received a serious arm wound, but refused to leave his post. He turned his bazooka over to an assistant gunner and continued to fight with his pistol and grenades. The fight lasted four hours and was repelled at dawn with heavy losses to the enemy. Private Barnhardt displayed high courage, determination and outstanding devotion to duty against long odds. His behavior was in keeping with the high standards of the "All-American" Airborne Forces."

Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, General Orders No. 61
Silver Star Medal (SSM)
Awarded for action near Nijmegen between September 17th and October 4th, 1944.

Royal Decree No. 31.

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