Presidential Unit Citation

of
the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment for its actions during the Normandy Campaign.

"The 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, is cited for gallantry and outstanding performance of duty during the assault on the coast of Normandy, France, 7 to 9 June, 1944. Completing the first glider landing of such a force in history, the regiment arrived over the Cotentin peninsula at 0700 on 7 June. Faced with intense artillery, machine gun and antiaircraft fire, the formations were dispersed and forced to land from 2,000 to 7,000 yards distance from the designated landing zone. Despite opposition from static and mobile enemy groups and mortar, artillery, and automatic weapons fire from every direction, rapid assembly was effected and the enemy driven out of the area near Carquebut by 1500.

"On the following day, with reinforcements of parachute elements, the enemy was driven north of Ste. Mere Eglise to Neuville au Plain and Fresville and was prevented from crossing the Merderet River near La Fiere. During the night of 8-9 June, crossings of the inundated area west of the Merderet and of the river near the bridge at La Fiere were accomplished. Driving into the center of the vastly superior German forces, after one of the fiercest and bitterest battles fought inland from the beaches, the bridgehead was secured and the 90th Division enabled to pass through the following day. The gallantry and courage shown by all members of the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, are worth of emulation and reflect the highest traditions of the United States Army."