UNIT CITATION 219

HEADQUARTERS, 6TH ARMORED DIVISION

APO 256, United States Army

16 June 1945

GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 219

UNIT CITATION

1. Under the provisions of Section IV, Circular Number 333, War Department, dated 22 December 1943, as amended, Troop "A", 86th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron Mechanized, 6th Armored Division, is cited for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in effecting a crossing of the Prum River at Heilhausen, Germany during the period 26 February 1945 to 28 February 1945.

2. Braving enemy minefields and icy water, Troop A, 86th Cavalry Reconnaissance Mechanized, captured and held vital ground which led to the successful establishment of a bridgehead on the east bank of the Prum River. With its strength depleted by heavy casualties, the Troop withstood constant and intense artillery and mortar fire, wiped out enemy patrols, and defeated counterattacks by superior forces. For forty hours, the Troop was without food and water and was isolated from friendly forces. Despite heavy losses and adverse conditions, they held the most advanced point in the bridgehead, enabling other forces to cross the river, secure the bridgehead, build a bridge, and continue the attack to the Rhine River and Central Germany. The gallantry, grim determination and aggressiveness displayed by the officers and enlisted men of Troop A, 86th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron Mechanized in the face of overwhelming odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

BY COMMAND OF MAJOR GENERAL GROW:

PHILLIP H. POPE

Lieutenant Colonel, General Staff Corps

Chief of Staff

OFFICIAL:

G.W. MOORE JR.

Lieutenant Colonel, Adjutant General's Department

Adjutant General

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