Leach, James Herbert "Jimmie"

Date of birth:: April 7th, 1922 (Houston/Texas, United States)
Date of death:: December 17th, 2009 (South Carolina, United States)
Nationality:: American

Biography

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Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Captain
Unit:: Company B, 37th Tank Battalion, 4th Armored Division, U.S. Army
Awarded on:: February 21st, 1945

"For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 37th Tank Battalion, 4th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 December 1944, during the Ardennes Offensive. On that date, Captain Leach led his company in an assault on the strongly defended town of Bigonville, Luxembourg. Early in the attack two of the Captain's tanks were destroyed, and he suffered a painful head wound; but despite this, he courageously continued on, inspiring his men by his fearless leadership. Later in the fight Captain Leach was again wounded, but he continued to lead and direct the attack with such ferocity that the enemy was completely defeated and the town secured. The conspicuous heroism of Captain Leach, and his fearless, inspiring leadership and loyal devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Armored Division, and the United States Army."

Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 42 ( 21 February 1945).