World War II Honoree

James B. Gallagher

Branch of Service

U.S. Army

Hometown

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Honored By

Kathleen O’Connell

Relationship

Niece

He was a Private First Class and served in the 142nd Infantry Regiment of the 36th Infantry Division which landed at Salerno, Italy, in September 1943, during Operation Avalanche. This amphibious assault was critical in establishing an Allied foothold in Southern Italy. The regiment participated in the difficult Italian Campaign, including battles such as those at Monte Cassino and the Rapido River, where they faced fierce resistance from German forces. The 142nd Infantry Regiment was part of Operation Dragoon, the Allied invasion of Southern France, in August 1944. They rapidly advanced through France, liberating several towns and cities along the way. He also fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was killed on February 4, 1945 and is buried in the Epinal American Cemetery in France. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters.