Memorial

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Sgt Gordon E. Willis enlisted in Los Angeles, California on 22 March 1943.
He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal posthumously. The citation cited: For heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy, on 24 January 1945 in Belgium. During the attack near Grand Halleux, it was necessary for the 3rd Battalion to cross several hundred yards of open field, under very intense machine gun fire. When the company on the right flank became held up by the enemy, he immediately employed a 60mm mortar and eliminated the position, allowing the attack to continue. Later when company became pinned down by machine gun fire, he, without orders called for a mortar and ammunition and using only the tube, holding it between his legs, he expended over 30 rounds hitting one enemy position and forcing the enemy to withdraw, allowing company to continue the advance. He was killed in the ensuing action. This display of initiative, leadership and self sacrifice, for which he gave his life is of the highest order and commands the greatest credit.