World War II Honoree

George E. Nettleton

Branch of Service

U.S. Army

Hometown

New Madrid County, Missouri

Honored By

Ken & Glenda Miller

Served in the 36th Division during WWII. On December 13, 1944, a Private at the time, he was a new replacement in Company D. because of the shortage of men, he was made first gunner in a machine gun squad. His squad was in position to defend a recently captured town when enemy troops attempted to infiltrate the friendly lines. Two of the squad members were killed and several had been wounded. A heavy artillery barrage prevented the others from assisting him and other gun crew were captured by the enemy. In spite of danger which confronted him, he remained in position for more than 12 hours without food or relief. He manned his machine gun alone, remaining constantly on alert for enemy movement. In spite of heavy shellfire and adverse weather conditions, he never relaxed his vigil, keeping the hostile troops pinned down over a wide sector. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action, the Bronze Star, Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster, and the Croix De Guerre.