"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty: First Lieutenant John R. Fox distinguished
himself by extraordinary heroism at the risk of his own life on 26
December 1944 in the Serchio River Valley Sector, in vicinity of
Sommocolonia, Italy. Lieutenant Fox was a member of Cannon Company, 366th Infantry, 92nd Infantry Division, acting as a forward observer,
while attached to the 598th Field Artillery Battalion. Christmas Day in
the Serchio Valley was spent in positions which had been occupied for
some weeks. During Christmas night, there was a gradual influx of enemy
soldiers in civilian clothes and by early morning the town was largely
in enemy hands. An organized attack by uniformed German formations was
launched around 0400 hours, 26 December 1944. Reports were received that
the area was being heavily shelled by everything the Germans had, and
although most of the U.S. infantry forces withdrew from the town,
Lieutenant Fox and members of his observation party remained behind on
the second floor of a house, directing defensive fires. Lieutenant Fox
reported at 0800 hours that the Germans were in the streets and
attacking in strength, He called for artillery fire increasingly close
to his own position. He told his battalion commander, "That was just
where I wanted it. Bring it 60 yards! His commander protested that there
was a heavy barrage in the area and bombardment would be too close.
Lieutenant Fox gave his adjustment, requesting that the barrage be
fired. The distance was cut in half. The Germans continued to press
forward in large numbers, surrounding the position. Lieutenant Fox again
called for artillery fire with the commander protesting again stating,
"Fox, that will be on you!" The last communication from Lieutenant Fox
was. "Fire it! There's more of them than there are of us. Give them
hell!" The bodies of Lieutenant Fox and his party were found in the
vicinity of his position when his position was taken. This action, by
Lieutenant Fox, at the cost of his own life, inflicted heavy casualties,
causing deaths of approximately 100 Germans, thereby delaying the
advance of the enemy until infantry and artillery units could be
reorganized to meet the attack. Lieutenant Fox's extraordinary valorous
actions exemplify the highest traditions of the military service.
"
From Lt. Fox's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on January 12, 1997.
Italian memorial of Fox and his men's exploit.
Italian park dedicated to Fox and his men.
Fox's commemorative G.I. Joe figure.
Thank you for your service and we are glad you finally recived the honors that you were due. May you be at peace,
Brian & Melonie
No comments:
Post a Comment