Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

Company H, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

July 1st, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Detroit

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy on 7 June 1944, in France. When the enemy counterattacked with tanks in the vicinity of Ste. Mere Eglise, one of the very few antitank guns at the disposal of the defending force had been put out of action due to the fact that most of the members of its crew were casualties. As the enemy tanks approached, Private Atchley despite the fact that he had never previously fired an antitank gun, left his place of cover and fearlessly moved over to man the gun. Although without aid, Private Atchley’s second shot destroyed one of the advancing tanks, whereupon the other tanks turned about and retreated. The courage, daring and complete disregard for his life displayed by Private Atchley reflects great credit on himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces. Entered military service from Alabama."

General Orders No.31, Headquarters, First U.S. Army (July 1, 1944).

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

Company H, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

Company H, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

This award was obtained in the form of an Oak Leaf to be attached on the ribbon of the first award.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private 1st Class

Unit:

Company H, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

This award was obtained in the form of an second Oak Leaf to be attached on the ribbon of the first award.