"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action above and beyond the
call of duty. Col. Wilbur prepared the plan for making contact with
French commanders in Casablanca and obtaining an armistice to prevent
unnecessary bloodshed. On 8 November 1942, he landed at Fedala with the
leading assault waves where opposition had developed into a firm and
continuous defensive line across his route of advance. Commandeering a
vehicle, he was driven toward the hostile defenses under incessant fire,
finally locating a French officer who accorded him passage through the
forward positions. He then proceeded in total darkness through 16 miles
of enemy-occupied country intermittently subjected to heavy bursts of
fire, and accomplished his mission by delivering his letters to
appropriate French officials in Casablanca. Returning toward his
command, Col. Wilbur detected a hostile battery firing effectively on
our troops. He took charge of a platoon of American tanks and personally
led them in an attack and capture of the battery. From the moment of
landing until the cessation of hostile resistance, Col. Wilbur's conduct
was voluntary and exemplary in its coolness and daring."
From Col. Wilbur's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on January 13, 1943.
May you be at peace,
Brian
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