William Connelly

ASN:33334783

Award of the Silver Star

Under the provisions of Army Regulations 600-45 you are awarded a Silver Star for gallantry in action.

          “WILLIAM CONNELLY, (33339783), Private First Class, 376th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion.  For gallantry in action, on 30 November 1943, near Scapoli, Italy.  During an intense enemy mortar and artillery barrage, a direct hit was scored on an artillery piece near Private First Class CONNELLY’S position.  The gun was knocked out of action, several men were wounded, and a large ammunition pile nearby was set afire.  Private First Class CONNELLY rushed to the area and made repeated trips to evacuate the wounded.  In spite of direct enemy observation, the artillery barrage, and the danger of burning ammunition, Private First Class CONNELLY performed his task until all the casualties were removed to a battalion aid station.  He displayed courage and coolness under fire in saving the lives of his fellow soldiers.  Entered military service from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.”

                                                                                                                     MARK W. CLARK,

                                                                                                       Lieutenant General, U. S. Army,

                                                                                                                        Commanding.

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 William Connelly, 69, died August 31, 1990. God bless this hero.