Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Technical Sergeant

Unit:

Company H, 331st Infantry Regiment, 83rd Infantry Division "Thunderbolt", U.S. Army (Company H, 331st Infantry Regiment, 83rd Infantry Division "Thunderbolt", U.S. Army)

Technical Sergeant Hershel A. Metheny, 6857125, Infantry, 331st Infantry, United States Army. For distinguished himself by gallantry in action on13 December 1944, near Gey, Germany. Sergeant Metheny was platoon sergeant of a heavy machine gun platoon. A barrage of enemy mortars and artillery caused numerous casualties, including the platoon leader. With cool presence of mind, Sergeant Metheny went to the different squads reorganizing the men and rallying them to the attack. As the first squad was advancing two enemy snipers opened fire, halting the squad. Sergeant Metheny fired upon them with his sub-machine gun and ordered them to surrender. When they answered by a burst of fire, he charged their position, killing one and caused the other to expose himself to the fire of the platoon. In the course of this daring leadership of this non-commissioned officer he was fatally wounded. The fearless initiative and conspicuous leadership of Sergeant Metheny reflect the highest credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the armed forces of the United States. Entered military service from Nebraska.

Posthumously awarded.