Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

456th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army (456th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division, US Army)

Citation:
Private Lee W. Harper, 456th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy on 30 June 1944 while in France. While advancing upon a heavily fortified coastal area, Private Harper's battalion was halted by devastating fire from a hostile machine gun. With utter disregard for his life, Private Harper voluntarily crossed open and fire swept ground to draw the attention of the enemy from squads attacking on the flanks. He was struck four times by hostile fire before he fell seriously wounded ten yards short of the enemy gun position. By his heroic actions and personal bravery, Private Harper distracted the enemy sufficiently to permit assault elements of his platoon to eliminate the machine gun nest, thus exemplifying the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.