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operations against an armed enemy in FRANCE. On 10 November 1944, Captain BRYAN fearlessly
led his company in a bold assault on a strong enemy position near INGLANGE, FRANCE, inspiring his
men by his conspicuous, heroic leadership. Following his example, the company assaulted with
bayonets and grenades and killed and captured nearly a hundred of the enemy. On 11 November,
Captain BRYAN again distinguished himself by personally leading his company against another strong
enemy position, again inspiring his men to take the objective and inflict tremendous losses of men and
material upon the enemy. His heroic determination and courageous devotion to duty reflect great credit
upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
COMPANY M
Captain JOHN W. MARSH, 0364376, Company “M”, 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry
Division, United States Army. For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against
an armed enemy in FRANCE. On 10 July 1944, Captain MARSH was commanding Company “M”,
358th Infantry Regiment, advancing against a strong enemy position in the vicinity of the FORET DE
MONT CASTRE, FRANCE when the rifle companies of the 3rd Battalion became disorganized and
separated in the face of intense enemy fire. Captain MARSH, realizing that many of the officers were
replacements with little combat experience, left his heavy weapons company in the control of the second
in command and went forward to assist the battalion commander in organizing a hasty defense. With
utter disregard of enemy fire coming from the front and both flanks, he led small groups of riflemen
forward to close the gaps in the line, boldly directing their fire until the enemy was forced to retire.
Before a complete reorganization could be effected, the enemy counter-attacked and again Captain
MARSH left his company to proceed to the foremost front line troops to give his assistance. As he
directed fire on the enemy he took up arms of the wounded and inspired his men to drive off the enemy.
Even after suffering the wounds which resulted in his death he continued to lead his men until he fell,
unable to go further. The inspired leadership of Captain MARSH, his courage and complete devotion to
duty, exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.
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