Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Platoon Sergeant

Unit:

Special Operations, Office of Strategic Services (OSS), U.S. Government

Awarded for:

Operation Union II

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Arms Instructor serving with Marine Detachment, American Embassy, London, England, in action against enemy German forces in France, from 1 August to 3 October 1944. Parachuted behind the German lines into France to instruct the Beaufort Maquis and other resistance groups in the use of modern weapons, Sergeant Brunner skillfully trained these guerilla forces to a high state of efficiency and, participating in their audacious forays against the Wehrmacht, disrupted communications and troop movements and assisted in the liberation of numerous towns in the department before arrival of Allied troops, On 16 August, when his patrol was dispersed by a numerically superior enemy force, he calmly returned accurate fire as he effected a withdrawal, swam across a swiftly flowing, bullet-swept river without loss of arms or equipment and, risking execution as a spy by donning civilian clothing, made his way fifteen miles through German-controlled territory to regain contact with his headquarters. By his courageous actions, resourcefulness and devotion to duty, Sergeant Brunner contributed materially to the success of the Allied Campaign in Europe, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)