Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Service Company, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

July 1st, 1944

Citation:
Captain Robert D. Rae, 01288948, 507th Parachute Infantry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy on 9 June 1944, near Ste. Mere Eglise, France. Elements of a division were ordered to establish a bridgehead across the Merderet River to relieve isolated groups of the division which had been holding fast on the other side of the river. Attainment of this objective involved a frontal assault across the bridge and over the river against heavy enemy fire. One company started the attack and was pinned down by the full force of the enemy fire. In order to maintain the momentum a composite company under Captain Rae was ordered to pass through the unit that was pinned down. Captain Rae placed himself at the head of the company and led the assault directly into the concentrated rifle, machine gun, mortar and artillery fire of the enemy. He moved with such speed that he carried his men across the bridge, reorganized and pressed his initial advantage and overran the enemy positions. The courage and superior leadership displayed by Captain Rae reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces. Entered military service from Florida.

Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 31 (1 July 1944).