Award DSO Colonel W.C. Purnell, 175th Infantry Regiment (France)

brithm · Mar 29, 2023

Award Distinguished Service Order Colonel William C. Purnell, 175th Infantry Regiment (O-183312)

On 12th September 1944, the 175th Infantry of which Colonel Purnell was, and is, Regimental Commander, was attacking toward the city of Brest, France. Because of heavy enemy mortar fire, the advance of the 2nd Battalion of that regiment was retarded and one of it companies. Company 'F' was unable to move from an antitank ditch to which it had advanced. To correct this critical situation and insure the continuation of the attack to the assigned objective. Colonel Purnell went forward through the heavy enemy fire, at great personal risk and without regard for his own safety, to the advance elements of the 2nd Battalion and directed the withdrawal of Company 'F' and the resumption of the attack by that company and the remainder of the Battalion. To accomplish his mission, he personally coordinated the fires of artillery and mortars to screen and protect the reorganisation and renewed attack. His superb leadership, skilful tactical direction and outstanding personal courage, on this occasion, were largely responsible for the capture, shortly thereafter, of a key enemy fortified position.
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WO 373/149/991

IWM BU 8376 Colonel William C. Purnell, H.Q. 175 Infantry Regiment.

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Award DSO Colonel W.C. Purnell, 175th Infantry Regiment (France)

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Award DSO Colonel W.C. Purnell, 175th Infantry Regiment (France)

brithm Senior Member

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