July 1st, 2009, 11:12 PM
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Re: HISTORY OF TASK FORCE 45
lrusso216,
>I just came across this forum. My father served in Co. K of the 473rd. He was originally in the 900th AA/AAW Battalion. He died in 1990, but I have all of his service medals. He was awarded the CIB and the Bronze Star, as General Marshall recommended.
I have been attempting to receive approval to requests for the CIB involving veterans of Bataan, and Battle of the Bulge. According to guidelines, members that served as infantrymen regardless the MOS were entitled.
I discovered documents revealing hundreds of combat infantrymen without the MOS of an infantryman awarded the CIB. It was not until the 1960's when the requirement was listed.
As recent as 2003 Congressman Patrick Kennedy (RI) presented the CIB to a former member of the AAF that fought in the Philippines during 1941/1942. According to documents, Commanding Generals, and below authorized the CIB to those in accordance with the WD Circulars dated 1943, and 1944. Many did not possess the MOS of an infantryman.
Yet today, the Army refuses to follow the guidelines exclusively to WWII era. The Army does not recognize those that participated in the Battle of Bataan and Battle of the Bulge based on their MOS.
If interested, please provide copy of the General Orders or Separation paper of your father, obviously with personal information removed.
Robert
Quote:
Originally Posted by lrusso216
I just came across this forum. My father served in Co. K of the 473rd. He was originally in the 900th AA/AAW Battalion. He died in 1990, but I have all of his service medals. He was awarded the CIB and the Bronze Star, as General Marshall recommended.
If you want more info about the 473rd, there is a combat history that is very good. I have a copy, but I would also recommend Patrick Audinet's website devoted to the 473rd. ( The 473rd Infantry Regiment In WWII)
Neat site. |
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