Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Company E, 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division "Red Bull", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

1944

Joe H. Kimble, 0-1290435, Captain, Infantry, United States Army. For extraordinary heroism in action, on 13 October 1943, in the vicinity of Squille, Italy. During a night assault crossing of the Volturno River, Captain Kimble led his company in crossing the stream under a barrage of enemy shellfire. He personally captured the first prisoner and directed the security of the bridgehead so that the balance of the company could cross. Under intense enemy machine gun fire, Captain Kimble guided each platoon to the designated rallying point. As soon as all elements of his command were in readiness, he launched an assault which quickly and completely neutralized all enemy positions in the company sector. During this assault Captain Kimble directed the fire of his leading platoons, and on one occasion returned to the weapons platoon to direct fire of his mortars on enemy machine guns which had temporarily pinned down the forward elements. This isolated attack against strong enemy positions made possible the successful crossing of the battalion, and in addition, protected the flank of an adjacent unit. Captain Kimble’s courage, determination and ability to lead and inspired his men reflect the heroic traditions of the Armed Forces. Entered military service from Mayfield, Kentucky.

Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 78 (1944).