Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

2nd Lieutenant

Unit:

Company A, 18th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division "Thundering Herd", U.S. Army (Company A, 18th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division "Thundering Herd", U.S. Army)

The Silver Star is presented to Robert C. Cox (O-532723), Second Lieutenant (Cavalry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 18th Tank Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 27 January 1945. Lieutenant Cox was in the lead tank of his platoon as it was advancing toward Sinz, Germany. As his column was proceeding across a marshy field to the right flank of an adjoining company, his tank struck a mine and was immediately brought under fire by the two enemy Mark IV tanks. Despite this fire, Lieutenant Cox dismounted and directed the movement of his tank so as to bring it into position to fire. He then engaged both tanks and an anti-tank gun annihilating all. While his crew remained with the tank, Lieutenant Cox again dismounted and although under constant artillery fire, he guided the rest of the company around the mined area. Lieutenant Cox's personal bravery and inspiring leadership reflects great credit upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States. Entered Military Service from New Mexico.

G.O. No. 1, Hq. 8th Armd. Div., 8 February, 1945, Page 2.