World War II Honoree

Paul Donal 'Ramrod' Harkins

Branch of Service

U.S. Army

Hometown

Boston, Massachusetts

Honored By

Pearl Thomas

He served as Deputy Chief of Staff for operations in General George Patton's commands. Helped Patton's Western Task Force prepare for the invasion of North Africa and took part in the assault landing at Fedhala Beach. As part of the Seventh Army, he played a major role in planning and invasion of Sicily and in the initial landings and combat at Gela. While serving with the Third Army, he earned the nickname 'Ramrod' for his determination to fulfill Patton's desire to always keep Third Army moving during combat in France. He was at the Battle of Bulge and after the war took part in the occupation of Bavaria. Received Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with 'V' device and one bronze oak leaf clusters, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one silver star and three bronze stars, Distinguished Service Medal with two bronze oak leaf clusters, and Army of Occupation Medal with Germany clasp.