Memorial

More information

Sgt Mantville saw action in North Africa, Sicily and landed in Normandy on D-Day.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The citation cited: 'The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant John R. Mantville for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 5 March 1945. On that date, Sergeant Mantville's company attacked to seize high ground east of Weilerswist, Germany. The enemy counterattacked in force, pinning down the company with intense automatic fire, threatening both flanks. Against this fire, completely disregarding his own safety, Sergeant Mantville crawled forward towards the enemy positions, armed with a submachine gun and hand grenades, then fearlessly charged a second machinegun, firing as he advanced. He destroyed the gun and killed the three defenders but was himself fatally wounded by an explosive mine. Even then this courageous soldier would not permit his comrades to expose themselves to come to his aid. Sergeant Mantville's heroic determination, personal bravery and supreme devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.'

His brother William served with the U.S. Marines in the South Pacific.