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Personal info

Full name
KNIGHT, Gabriel Maxim
Date of birth
7 July 1917
Age
27
Place of birth
Lafayette, Lafayette Parish, Louisiana
Hometown
Lafayette, Lafayette Parish, Louisiana

Military service

Service number
38223146
Rank
Private First Class
Function
unknown
Unit
36th Armored Infantry Regiment,
3rd Armored Division
Awards
Silver Star,
Purple Heart

Death

Status
Killed in Action
Date of death
19 November 1944
Place of death
Scherpenseel, Battle at Aachen, Germany

Grave

Cemetery
American War Cemetery Henri-Chapelle
Plot Row Grave
A 16 46

Immediate family

Members
J.E. Knight (father)

More information

Pfc Gabriel M. Knight enlisted at Camp Livingston, Louisiana on 11 August 1942.
The citation follows:
"For gallantry in action against the enemy in Germany on November 19, 1944. Pfc. G.M. Knight displayed outstanding qualities of bravery and fearlessness as his company was clearing out enemy resistance in the streets and houses of a German town. On one occasion, the advance of his company with the supporting tanks, was impeded by an anti-tank gun emplacement in a street. Under extremely heavy artillery, machinegun and demall arms fire, Pfc. Knight single-handedly advanced and knocked out the anti-tank gun with grenades and small arms. During this action he was struck by enemy fire and through his courage and aggressiveness, his unit was able to continue the advance. The actions of Pfc. Knight reflected the highest of credit upon himself and one in keeping with the highest tradition of the armed forces."
Signed (Edward F. Witsell, Major General, Acting)

Source of information: Michelle C. Guidry, www.wwiimemorial.com, www.archives.gov - WWII Enlistment Record, Newspaper Clipping in The Daily Advertiser - Lafayette, LA newspaper

Photo source: www.findagrave.com - Des Philippet, Michelle C. Guidry