Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private 1st Class

Unit:

325th Glider Infantry, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Citation:
Private First Class James L. Geach, 325th Glider Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy on 5 July 1944, in France. When an enemy tank accompanied by a force of infantry penetrated his company's position, Private First Class Geach seized a rocket launcher, though he had never handled one before, and ran to the hedgerow alongside the road on which the tank was traveling. As the tank moved along with its guns in action it drove everyone within radius of its fire to cover. From his position in the hedgerow, Private First Class Geach fired several rockets at the tank and forced it to retreat. The enemy accompanying the tank took shelter in the hedgerow. Private First Class Geach attacked these men with his rifle and killed four of them. Shortly thereafter the enemy developed a strong counterattack. Friendly tanks were moved up. Private First Class Geach voluntarily led the tanks on foot, despite intense enemy fire directed at him, into position. The personal bravery, initiative, and gallantry exhibited by Private First Class Geach reflects great credit on himself and the Armed Forces. Entered miltary service from Wisconsin.