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1st Lt Charles W. Ellis had been promoted from the rank of Second Lieutenant to that of First Lieutenant by Maj Gen D.A. Stroh, commanding General of the Army Headquarters, Eighth Infantry Division. Lt Ellis advancement is known as a battlefield promotion and is based on merit displayed in battle, according to a letter received by the soldier's wife from Major General Stroh. "In the case of your husband", the general states, "his battalion commander states that his recommendation for promotion was based on his superior manner of leadership while in command of a light tank platoon during the Normandy and Brittany campaigns. His untiring effort and devotion to duty was an inspiration to his men."

Lt Charles Ellis began his training at Brownwood, Texas and received his commission in 1942 at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He went overseas in February 1944 and was stationed with his division in England, where he fought his way through France and into Germany. He entered service just prior to the Pearl Harbor attack. He was killed in action in Germany while serving with an armored division.

"Movement to positions were to be made the night of 30 November and 1 December 1944. During this movement a light tank commanded by 1st Lt. Charles Ellis turned over in a crater beside the road (F030354) killing Lt. Ellis and his gunner."

The citation accompanying the Bronze Star Medal reads as follows: For heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy November 27, 1944. Lt Ellis led his platoon in support of infantrymen in an attack on a strongly-held town. 'Advancing in the face of bitter enemy resistance, he led his tanks forward until the exceedingly difficult terrain made it impossible for the platoon to continue its advance. With utter disregard to his personal safety, he took his tank forward in an effort to provide the infantry with proper support. His example of unselfish courage was an inspiration to all who saw him.'