Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

414th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division "Timberwolf", U.S. Army

For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations in Germany on 4 December 1944.
Discovering that two of his men were missing, Captain Whitney immediately advanced into the fire-swept area, searched the foxholes and shell-craters, found the two wounded men and personally carried them to safety. Realizing that a frontal assault on an enemy-held railroad embankment would result in heavy casualties, Captain Whitney decided to try a bluff. Unarmed and carrying a small, celluloid map-board, Captain Whitney briskly walked down the track. Nearing an enemy trench, Captain Whitney motioned with his map-board and one enemy rose from his position and surrendered. He continued this action until a total of fifteen of the enemy had surrendered to him. The extraordinary heroism and courageous actions of Captain Whitney reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. Entered military service from Mississippi.