Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Martin H. Thorne, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 4 July 1944. Although still suffering from shrapnel wounds in his back, Private First Class Thorne led a reconnaissance patrol so skillfully and courageously, that he obtained important information that was used as the basis of an immediate attack. During this attack Private First Class Thorne played a role as he personally led his company forward through an intense mortar barrage. After the company split up on his advice, Private First Class Thorne led his platoon to an enemy strong point. The enemy, however, discovered his presence and thew hand grenades, wounding Private First Class Thorne in the legs. Undismayed by this, and regardless of his safety, Private First Class Thorne immediately charged the enemy with his submachine gun, killing four of the enemy, knocking out two machine guns, and causing the other Germans to retreat, surprised and demoralized by his bold, daring actions. The attack made by his company that day was a complete success, due almost completely to Private First Class Thorne. Private First Class Thorne’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    505th Parachute Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    82nd Airborne Division

    Action Date:

    July 4, 1944

    Headquarters, 1st Airborne Army, General Orders No. 41 (November 9, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Martin H. Thorne, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 4 July 1944. Although still suffering from shrapnel wounds in his back, Private First Class Thorne led a reconnaissance patrol so skillfully and courageously, that he obtained important information that was used as the basis of an immediate attack. During this attack Private First Class Thorne played a role as he personally led his company forward through an intense mortar barrage. After the company split up on his advice, Private First Class Thorne led his platoon to an enemy strong point. The enemy, however, discovered his presence and threw hand grenades, wounding Private First Class Thorne in the legs. Undismayed by this, and regardless of his safety, Private First Class Thorne immediately charged the enemy with his submachine gun, killing four of the enemy, knocking out two machine guns, and causing the other Germans to retreat, surprised and demoralized by his bold, daring actions. The attack made by his company that day was a complete success, due almost completely to Private First Class Thorne. Private First Class Thorne’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.