Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

Company B, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

Citation:
Sergeant Charles E. Nau, 13145277 (then Corporal), Infantry, United States Army. For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 17 September 1944 near Heumen, Holland. As a rifle squad leader, Sergeant Nau was leading his squad in a daring frontal assault by his platoon on an important highway bridge five miles southwest of Nijmegen, Holland, 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 six 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, reflecting the highest traditions of the Armed Forces. Entered military service from Tyrone, Pennsylvania.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

Company B, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

October 8th, 1945

Royal decree no.31