Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private 1st Class

Unit:

Headquarters Company, 760th Tank Battalion, 1st Armored Division "Old Ironsides", U.S. Army

"For gallantry in action on 6 January 1944, in the vicinity of Mt. Porchia, Italy. During operations in this sector a tank caught fire as a result of a hit by an enemy shell, causing a serious traffic tie-up. Leaving their place of safety, Major Cheek, Corporal Scanlon, and Private First Class McPeek rushed to the burning tank, and in spite of the imminent danger of the fuel tank exploding, they extinguished the fire. Their quick action saved the tank from almost certain destruction and made it possible to move tanks along the highway at a time when their employment was essential to the successful completion of the operation against Mt. Porchia. The heroic action of Major Cheek, Corporal Scanlon, and Private First Class McPeek was an inspiration to all who witnessed it, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service."