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Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Stories of Sacrifice

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World War II - U.S. Army

George W. g Boyce Jr.

Details
  • Rank: Second Lieutenant
  • Conflict/Era: World War II
  • Unit/Command:
    Troop A,
    112th Cavalry Regimental Combat Team
  • Military Service Branch: U.S. Army
  • Medal of Honor Action Date: July 23, 1944
  • Medal of Honor Action Place: near Afua, New Guinea
Citation
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty near Afua, New Guinea, on 23 July 1944. 2d Lt. Boyce's troop, having been ordered to the relief of another unit surrounded by superior enemy forces, moved out, and upon gaining contact with the enemy, the two leading platoons deployed and built up a firing line. 2d Lt. Boyce was ordered to attack with his platoon and make the main effort on the right of his troop. He launched his attack but after a short advance encountered such intense rifle, machine-gun, and mortar fire that the forward movement of his platoon was temporarily halted. A shallow depression offered a route of advance, and he worked his squad up this avenue of approach in order to close with the enemy. He was promptly met by a volley of hand grenades, one falling between himself and the men immediately following. Realizing at once that the explosion would kill or wound several of his men, he promptly threw himself upon the grenade and smothered the blast with his own body. By thus deliberately sacrificing his life to save those of his men, this officer exemplified the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Medal of Honor Recipient George W. Boyce Jr.
Medal of Honor Recipient George W. Boyce Jr.
Additional Details
  • Accredited to: Cornwall, Orange County, New York
  • Awarded Posthumously: Yes
  • Presentation Date & Details: February 12, 1945
  • Born: , New York, NY, United States
  • Died: July 23, 1944, New Guinea
  • Buried: A.B.M.C. Manila Cemetery (A-4-189), Manila, Philippine Islands
 

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