World War II Honoree

Henry P. Hartges

Branch of Service

U.S. Army

Hometown

Detroit, Michigan

Honored By

A Grateful American

Served in European theater of action as a Private First Class, company E, 142nd infantry Regiment in the vicinity of Hagenau, France. Company E was attacking through a densely wooded area when the enemy open fire with two well concealed machine guns halting the companies advancement. acting on his own initiative, he valiantly continued forward in the face of heavy machine gun and mortar fire across an area known to be mined and upon locating the gun position boldly he stood upright in order to get a clear field of view. After firing two rifle grenades and hurling a hand grenade into the emplacement, he dashed forward to assault the strong point, as five Germans came forward to surrender, he stepped on the enemy land mine and was severely wounded by the explosion. His daring aggressiveness and outstanding valor eliminated this German strong point and enabled his company to advance. He was awarded the Purple Heart and bronze star and numerous campaign medals during his time in service.