HEADQUARTERS
THIRD UNITED STATES ARMY
APO 403

GENERAL ORDERS:)
NUMBER 32)                                                                                   7 February 1945

EXTRACT

Unit Citation

Under the provisions of section IV, Circular No. 333, War Department, 1943 and with the authority contained in war department cable w 24608, 21 January 1943, the following units are cited:

The citation reads as follows:

101st Airborne Division (less 2nd Battalion, 401st Glider Infantry Regiment), with the following-attached units:
501st Parachute Infantry Regiment;
 

These units distinguished themselves in combat against powerful and aggressive enemy forces composed of elements of 8 German divisions during the period from 18 December to 27 December 1944 by extraordinary heroism and gallantry in defense of the key communications center of Bastogne, Belgium.

Essential to a large scale exploitation of his break-through into Belgium and northern Luxembourg, the enemy attempted to seize Bastogne by attacking constantly and savagely with the best of his armor and infantry.

Without benefit of prepared defenses, facing almost overwhelming odds and with very limited and fast dwindling supplies, these units maintained a high combat morale and an impenetrable defense, despite extremely heavy bombing, intense artillery fire, and constant attacks from infantry and armor on all sides of their completely cut off and encircled position. This masterful and grimly determined defense denied the enemy even momentary success in an operation for which he paid dearly in men, material, and eventually morale.

The outstanding courage and resourcefulness and undaunted determination of this gallant force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the service.

 

By command of Lieutenant General   PATTON:


Hobart R GAY
Brigadier General, U.S Army
Chief of Staff

                           

R.E.Cummings
Major General

The Adjutant General