*COLE, ROBERT G.
Rank and organization: Lieutenant Colonel,
U.S. Army, 101st Airborne Division. Place and date: Near Carentan, France, 11
June 1944. Entered service at: San Antonio, Tex. Birth: Fort Sam
Houston, Tex. G.O. No.: 79, 4 October 1944.
Citation:
For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his own life, above and beyond the call of
duty on 11 June 1944, in France. Lt. Col. Cole was personally leading his battalion in
forcing the last 4 bridges on the road to Carentan when his entire unit was suddenly
pinned to the ground by intense and withering enemy rifle, machinegun, mortar, and
artillery fire placed upon them from well-prepared and heavily fortified positions within
150 yards of the foremost elements. After the devastating and unceasing enemy fire had for
over 1 hour prevented any move and inflicted numerous casualties, Lt. Col. Cole, observing
this almost hopeless situation, courageously issued orders to assault the enemy positions
with fixed bayonets. With utter disregard for his own safety and completely ignoring the
enemy fire, he rose to his feet in front of his battalion and with drawn pistol shouted to
his men to follow him in the assault. Catching up a fallen man's rifle and bayonet, he
charged on and led the remnants of his battalion across the bullet-swept open ground and
into the enemy position. His heroic and valiant action in so inspiring his men resulted in
the complete establishment of our bridgehead across the Douve River. The cool
fearlessness, personal bravery, and outstanding leadership displayed by Lt. Col. Cole
reflect great credit upon himself and are worthy of the highest praise in the military
service.
