World War II Honoree

Abraham "Abe" Baum

Branch of Service

U.S. Army

Hometown

Bronx, New York

Honored By

Pearl Thomas

Relationship

A Grateful American

He enlisted shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Served in the 4th Armored Division and fought at Normandy where he suffered shrapnel wounds from a mine field. In March 1945, he was called in by General George Patton to lead a mission "Task Force Baum", a mission to liberate a prison camp at Hammelburg, Germany. This became controversial because twenty-five men were killed and 32 wounded including Abe and General Patton's son-in-law was a prisoner there. Received the Distinguished Service Cross and Purple Heart.