GO 19. SECTION IV, AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE

TERRENCE T. NELSON, 6285171, Private First Class, 508th Parachute Infantry. For meritorious service in connection with military operations against the enemy for the period 10 June to 20 July1944 near ***, FRANCE. Private First Class NELSON, a rifleman, Company “F”, while a prisoner of war, displayed great determination and a high sense of duty, which enabled him to escape from a guarded troop train. Isolated from his regiment following a parachute drop in NORMANDY on 6 June 1944, he moved for four days through enemy territory in an effort to rejoin his organization. He was taken prisoner of war and removed to *** where he was held for several days in a freight car in a rail yard near ***. When the train began to move from that city he made an opening in the side of the car and escaped approximately twenty kilometers from ***. He was able to find shelter with civilians who assisted him until American troops arrived in that area. Private First Class NELSON, subsequently returned to his organization. The exemplary conduct of Private First Class NELSON although being many miles behind enemy lines and without any promise of success, reflects the highest credit upon himself, his signalization and the United States Army. Entered military service from JEFFERSON, TEXAS..