”The Greatest of the Greatest Generation"

ohn Boone, LMG Platoon recalls.  “In the first few days in Normandy, my closest friend was killed while leading a column of which I was bringing up the rear.  Shortly thereafter, we were forced to pull back and set up a defensive position in an apple orchard.  At which time, I learned of my friend's death.

Toward dusk, I decided I couldn’t leave my friend’s body lay abandoned in a field.  This prompted me to move out of our area to find him.  Not too far out, I saw a trooper waving frantically from an open farm shed.  I could tell he was wounded.

I got this man over my shoulder and carried him back to our area.  He told us of three other wounded men that were brought back to our position.

So the intent of my errand was not realized due to darkness - perhaps that was what was intended.  I could not have helped my friend.  In reality, he warranted the Bronze Star medal I received, not me.  Had it not been for his death, I would not have left our defensive position.”

In the subsequent days, as communications improved and more men found their way to 508 led groups, the 508^th PIR became a war fighting capable force.  It accomplished many difficult missions including major attacks, defense of critical areas, and extensive combat patrols.  Every mission assigned to the regiment was efficiently accomplished.

On July 12, 1944, the 508^th PIR utilizing two LSTs, departed Normandy across the UTAH Beach bound for SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND, and thence by train to a “heroes” welcome in Nottingham.

The 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment was awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation, and the French Fourragere with Croix de Guerre for its outstanding accomplishments fighting in Normandy.  The Award citations follow.

Distinguished Unit Citation

 “The 508^th Parachute Infantry is cited for outstanding performance of duty in action against the enemy between 6 and 9 June 1944, during the invasion of France.  The Regiment landed by parachute shortly after 0200 hours, 6 June 1944.  Intense antiaircraft and machine-gun fire was directed against the approaching planes and parachutist drops.  Enemy mobile anti airborne landing groups immediately engaged assembled elements of the Regiment and reinforced their opposition with heavily supported reserve units.  Elements of the Regiment seized Hill 30, in the wedge

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