TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

Taylor, George Arthur

Date of birth:
February 14th, 1899 (Illinois, United States)
Date of death:
December 3rd, 1969 (Palo Alto/California, United States)
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Servicenumber 0-14922.

Do you have more information about this person? Inform us!

Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Colonel
Unit:
16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division "The Big Red One", US Army
Awarded on:
July 1st, 1944
Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. Colonel Taylor landed during the most crucial and threatening period of the invasion operation. Thousands of men lay huddled on a narrow beachhead, their organizations and leaders cut down by the disastrous enemy fire. Without hesitation, unmindful of the snipe and machine gun fire which was sweeping the beach, Colonel Taylor began to reorganize the units. While continuously exposed to this murderous fire, Colonel Taylor never slackened in his efforts in directing and coordinating the attack. By his initiative and leadership, he was able to clear an exit from the beach and begin moving groups of men from the crowded beachhead. This was the only exit opened in the early part of the assault and subsequent events proved it to be one of the most vital points contributing to the success of this operation. The high professional skill and outstanding courage exhibited by Colonel Taylor exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army."


HQ First U.S. Army, GO 31, July 1st, 1944
Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)

Sources

  • - Knickerbocker, H.R., Danger Forward – The Story of the First Division in World War II, The Battery Press, Nashville, USA, 2002
    - Balkoski, J., Omaha Beach: D-Day, June 6, 1944, Stackpole Books, Mechanicsburg, U.S.A., 2006
    - homeofheroes.com
    - Military Times Hall of Valor

Photo