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CITATION: GO 34 - 17 March 1945 (page 4)
WILLIAM L. REED, 06883872,
Staff Sergeant, 504th Parachute Infantry. For gallantry in action on
5 February 1945, near ******, GERMANY. While Company “C” was in a temporary
defensive position in the Siegfried line, the rifle squad led by Staff
Sergeant REED was heavily counterattacked by a reinforced company. Because
of his isolated position it was impossible to reinforce Staff Sergeant
REED's position. Although instructed by radio to withdraw, Staff Sergeant
REED requested permission to remain because of four wounded comrades
whom he did not wish to abandon. Exhorting his men to supreme effort
Staff Sergeant REED directed them in their repelling of the enemy. When
the enemy withdrew temporarily, Staff Sergeant REED effected a speedy
withdrawal of all his able-bodied and wounded men to a secure position.
His gallant leadership saved the lives of four comrades and enabled
his company to maintain control of strategic terrain. Entered military
service from CUMBERLAND, MARYLAND.
Note: This award cites action while SSgt Reed was
a member of the 504th PIR. He was later transferred to the
508th
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