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Weller, William E.

    Service number:
    33643797
    Nationality:
    American

    Biography

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    Period:
    Second World War (1939-1945)
    Rank:
    Private
    Unit:
    HQ Company, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army
    Awarded on:
    November 30th, 1944
    Awarded for:
    Operation Market Garden
    "For gallantry in action from 18 September 1944 to 21 September 1944 near ****, Holland. Private Weller, Bazooka Gunner, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, refused evacuation when wounded in the leg and continued to fight with his squad in a critical action. The enemy, with tank and artillery support, had attacked in force and were threatening to outflank the squad position. Private Weller voluntarily moved to the most dangerous sector and defended it alone. He loaded and fired his bazooka single-handedly, against personnel and tanks. When ammunition was exhausted, he moved through intense small arms fire in full view of the enemy and returned to his position. His effective and determined resistance forced the enemy to seek cover and delay the attack until our counter-attack was launched. Private Weller's gallant conduct in action was a material factor in the repulse of the German attack. 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. 60
    Silver Star Medal (SSM)

    K.B. nr. 31. G.O. no. 126 (1945)

    Sources

    Photo