Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

August 20th, 1943

Awarded for:

Operation Husky

Citation:
"For gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 9 July 1943, northwest of ****, Sicily. Private Collins, together with seven other men, manned two anti-tank guns which had previously been captured from the enemy. The seven men and Private Collins knocked out an *** "tankette" while they were exposed to heavy enemy machine gun fire. This "tankette" was loading an estimated enemy battalion in the approach march. These men had no previous experience in the operation of the anti-tank guns. By their action the enemy battalion became disorganized and withdrew. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army."

Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, General Orders No. 29

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Corporal

Unit:

Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army