"He displayed extraordinary heroism while commanding a platoon of mobile
weapons at Kommerscheidt, Germany, on 4, 5, and 6 November 1944. During
the fierce 3-day engagement, he repeatedly braved overwhelming enemy
fire in advance of his platoon to direct the fire of his tank destroyer
from exposed, dismounted positions. He went on lone reconnaissance
missions to discover what opposition his men faced, and on 1 occasion,
when fired upon by a hostile machine gun, advanced alone and eliminated
the enemy emplacement with a hand grenade. When a strong German attack
threatened to overrun friendly positions, he moved through withering
artillery, mortar, and small arms fire, reorganized confused infantry
units whose leaders had become casualties, and exhorted them to hold
firm. Although wounded early in battle, he continued to direct fire from
his advanced position until he was disabled by a high-explosive shell
which shattered his arm, forcing him to withdraw. He was last seen at a
medical aid station which was subsequently captured by the enemy. By his
superb courage, inspiring leadership, and indomitable fighting spirit,
1st Lt. Leonard enabled our forces to hold off the enemy attack and was
personally responsible for the direction of fire which destroyed 6
German tanks."
From 1LT Leonard's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on 1 September 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian
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