Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company B, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division "Lucky Seventh", U.S. Army (Company B, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division "Lucky Seventh", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant (then Second Lieutenant) Melvin E. Wischmeier (Army Serial Number 01016109), Infantry, United States Army, for distinguishing himself by heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 7 April 1945, in the area of Schmallenberg, Germany. In the attack on Schmallenberg Lt. Wischmeier's tank was disabled by a direct hit and his radio knocked out. Determined to remain in the fight, Lt. Wischmeier braved the great danger from continuing hostile fire to move on foot and contact the other tanks in his platoon. Amid the hail of falling shells he directed his armor into advantageous positions and brought telling fire to bear on the enemy. Lt Wischmeier then returned to his own tank and maneuvered it to defilade, saving it from complete destruction. The exemplary courage and aggressiveness he displayed, with complete disregard for personal safety, are in keeping with the high traditions of the Armed Forces.

Headquarters, 7th Armored Division, General Orders No. 80 (16 May 1945).