Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Company L, 3rd Battalion, 311th Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division "Lightning", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

May 3rd, 1945

Citation:
"For meritorious achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy during the period from 16 March 1945 to 19 April 1945 in Germany. Captain Cole, with his platoon from Company M, was attached to Company L for the attack on ****, Germany. During the approach to the town, the Commanding Officer of Company L was wounded. Captain Cole immidately assumed command of Company L and, without delay, continued the approach march. Under intense enemy artillery and small arms fire, he launched an assault on the objective and captured it with a minimum of casualties. His great personal courage and tactcal skill are in accordance with the highest military traditions."

At the time of the action he held the rank of 1st Lieutenant.