Hulon Brooke Whittington

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Sergeant Hulon Brooke Whittington, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, 2d Armored Division. On the night of 29 July 1944, near Grimesnil, France, during an enemy armored attack, Sergeant Whittington, a squad leader, assumed command of his platoon when the platoon leader and platoon sergeant became missing in action. He reorganized the defense and, under fire, courageously crawled between gun positions to check the actions of his men. When the advancing enemy attempted to penetrate a roadblock, Sergeant Whittington, completely disregarding intense enemy action, mounted a tank and by shouting through the turret, directed it into position to fire pointblank at the leading Mark V German tank. The destruction of this vehicle blocked all movement of the remaining enemy column consisting of over 100 vehicles of a Panzer unit. The blocked vehicles were then destroyed by hand grenades, bazooka, tank, and artillery fire and large numbers of enemy personnel were wiped out by a bold and resolute bayonet charge inspired by Sergeant Whittington. When the medical aid man had become a casualty, Sergeant Whittington personally administered first aid to his wounded men. The dynamic leadership, the inspiring example, and the dauntless courage of Sergeant Whittington, above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 32, April 23, 1945

Action Date: 29-Jul-44

Service: Army

Rank: Sergeant

Regiment: 41st Armored Infantry Regiment

Division: 2d Armored Division