The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal (Posthumously) to Lieutenant General Simon Bolivar Buckner, Jr. (ASN: 0-2370), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility. As Commanding General of the TENTH Army during the successful conquest of Okinawa from the latter part of March to June 1945, he displayed exceptional ability in planning for the campaign and supervised the equipping of troops and their rigid training in preparation there for. He quickly established his lines of power of all units of all branches of the armed services under his command. His well-planned maneuver and masterful handling of troops were an inspiration to our fighting forces, who not only carried on against a most determined and well-fortified foe, but also contended with extremely adverse weather, when rain and mud made it most difficult to move troops and equipment. In addition to his many tactical problems, he governed and cared for thousands of the island’s civilians. His mature judgment and professional excellence were directly responsible for our successful conquest of this important strategic base, from which operations can be readily conducted against the heart of the Japanese empire. His inspiring conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Military Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Distinguished Service Cross
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Army Distinguished Service Medal
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Distinguished Service Cross
Service:
United States ArmyRank:
Lieutenant GeneralDivision:
TENTH U.S. ArmyAction Date:
June 18, 1945
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces-Middle Pacific, General Orders No. 5 (1945)The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant General Simon Bolivar Buckner, Jr. (ASN: 0-2370), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding General of the TENTH U.S. Army, in action against enemy forces on 18 June 1945. After planning and directing all phases of his army’s activities in the Okinawan operation, General Buckner had forced the Japanese to the southern tip of the island. Realizing that decisive action would undoubtedly result, he joined a forward regiment and proceeded to a battalion observation post approximately 300 yards behind the front lines closely to supervise the action of his troops. The inspiration attendant upon his personal presence gave great impetus to the attack, resulting in the annihilation of the enemy position. While in this advanced and perilous position in vicinity of Mezato, 18 June 1945) General Buckner was killed by hostile artillery fire. The outstanding leadership, tactical genius, and personal courage of General Buckner thoroughly inspired his command, and culminated in final victory for the United States forces in Okinawa. Lieutenant General Buckner’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.
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Army Distinguished Service Medal
War Department, General Orders No. 63 (1943)(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant General Simon Bolivar Buckner, Jr. (ASN: 0-2370), United States Army, was awarded the Army Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Commanding General, Alaskan Forces, during World War II.