Memorial

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Cpl Travis J. Russell enlisted in Akron, Ohio on 17 October 1942.

He worked as a industrial cleaner. He attended 4 years of high school before he enlisted.

" The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Travis J. Russell (ASN: 35386368), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 24 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. Corporal Russell was a member of a four man outpost which was attacked and encircled by a twelve man enemy patrol. He ordered his companions to withdraw while he continued firing on the enemy to insure their safe withdrawal. When the three men were almost clear of the enemy, they called to Corporal Russell to come out before it was too late. He called back that they were to go on and tell the others "so long!" He was hit, but rose to his feet and kept firing until his ammunition was exhausted, then used his weapon as a club against the enemy. Before being overpowered and killed, Corporal Russell had killed four of the enemy and wounded others. His gallant sacrifice and exemplary bravery was in the highest traditions of the United States Airborne Forces.''

General Orders: Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, General Orders No. 130 (October 29, 1945)