Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company I, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army (Company I, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant Norman F. Wardwell, O-1323078 (then second lieutenant), Infantry, United States Army, for gallantry in action near Saint-Lô, Normandy, France, 17 July 1944. After completing his mission of establishing contact with an adjoining unit, Lieutenant Wardwell, a platoon leader, returned to his company and found it in a state of confusion, its commander wounded, and concentrations of enemy fire falling in the area. Promptly assuming command and reorganizing his troops, Lieutenant Wardwell led the company in inspiring advance over difficult terrain interspersed with hedgerows and sunken roads, forcing an enemy withdrawal and capturing a number of prisoners. While leading the attack, Lieutenant Wardwell came upon an enemy mortar, personally destroyed it with grenades, and killed a member of the crew who attempted to escape. Lieutenant Wardwell’s intrepidity reflects the highest credit upon his character as an officer and leader of men.
Entered military service from Connecticut.

Headquarters 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 49 (25 juni 1945).