Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Intelligence Officer, 110th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division "Keystone", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

1945

"For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Intelligence Officer, 110th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 September 1944. Major Gaynor boldly pursued six enemy soldiers who were fleeing in a captured vehicle, killed or wounded the entire group, and recovered the vehicle. While he was questioning one of the wounded soldiers, an enemy platoon advanced on foot toward his position. Despite overwhelming odds, he killed or wounded several of the enemy before he himself was seriously wounded, and the enemy overran his position, and proceeded on their way. With great fortitude and determination, he crawled to his vehicle and reported the information to higher headquarters, thus quickly leading to the destruction of the enemy in the sector. Major Gaynor's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 28th Infantry Division, and the United States Army."

Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 30 (1945).