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AWARD OF THE SILVER
STAR
TO SSGT ODELL E. CANNON
For Gallantry In Action 18 September 1944 |
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| GO No 60 Hq 82d AB Div APO 469 U S
Army 30 Nov '44 | (cont'd) |
ODELL E. CANNON,
14084064, Staff Sergeant, 508th Parachute Infantry.
For gallantry in action on 18 September 1944 about two miles from ***
Holland. Staff Sergeant CANNON, with a detail of supply men
engaged in the salvage of ammunition and equipment from our DZ, was
attacked by an enemy force estimated at 250 infantry, reinforced by
machine guns and 20mm anti-aircraft guns. The defense of this area
was imperative for the recovery of badly needed equipment and to further
secure the area for glider landings. Staff Sergeant CANNON quickly
organized his detail to defend his position. A platoon of the
enemy maneuvered to overrun his defense. Staff Sergeant
CANNON obtained a mortar tube and completely exposed himself to enemy
fire to place 50 rounds among the attacking platoon. When the
enemy had moved too close to permit mortar fire, he continued with a
carbine, often standing to fire into the enemy over a small crest.
By his quick aggressive action, Staff Sergeant CANNON contributed
directly to the successful defense of this area. His efforts
enabled us to remove ammunition and equipment vitally needed for the
accomplishment of the regimental mission and the security of the area
for glider landings. Entered military service from LARGO, FLORIDA. |
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