"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and
beyond the call of duty on 7 September 1944, near Besancon, France. Technician 5th Grade Maxwell and 3 other soldiers, armed only with .45 caliber automatic pistols,
defended the battalion observation post against an overwhelming
onslaught by enemy infantrymen in approximately platoon strength,
supported by 20mm. flak
and machine gun fire, who had infiltrated through the battalion's
forward companies and were attacking the observation post with
machine gun, machine pistol,
and grenade fire at ranges as close as 10 yards. Despite a hail of fire
from automatic weapons and grenade launchers, Technician 5th Grade
Maxwell aggressively fought off advancing enemy elements and, by his
calmness, tenacity, and fortitude, inspired his fellows to continue the
unequal struggle. When an enemy hand grenade was thrown in the midst of
his squad, Technician 5th Grade Maxwell unhesitatingly hurled himself
squarely upon it, using his blanket and his unprotected body to absorb
the full force of the explosion. This act of instantaneous heroism
permanently maimed Technician 5th Grade Maxwell, but saved the lives of
his comrades in arms and facilitated maintenance of vital military
communications during the temporary withdrawal of the battalion's
forward headquarters."
From Tec 5 Maxwell's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on April 6, 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian
Robert D. Maxwell Veterans Memorial Bridge in Bend, OR
Lane Community College Robert Dale Maxwell Student Veterans Center in Eugene, OR
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