Memorial

Biography

Harold McIntyre grew up in rural central New York State in Otsego and Chenango counties as the 4th child in a family of 7 children. He was known as a good student and was active in athletics, especially with his two older brothers. He graduated from South New Berlin High School, South New Berlin, New York in June 1938. Soon thereafter he completed a system of training (with Honors) in the field of Practical Business Administration offered through the American Technical Society. In the years leading up to his entry into the military he worked as a sales clerk near his home town.

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He entered the military on 27 January 1942 at Fort Niagara, Youngstown, New York. He received training as "Infantryman of a Heavy Weapons Company". He was eventually assigned to the 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, C Company and served with that unit in action in Africa, Italy, and France.

In April 1944, as a Staff Sergeant, he was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge for exemplary conduct in action against the enemy. In August 1944, as a Technical Sergeant, he was awarded a Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action.

The citation stated: "For gallantry in action on 20 August 1944 near **** France. While his company moved to more favorable positions during a determined enemy attack, Technical Sergeant McIntyre organized a small covering force and personally manned a Browning Automatic Rifle to cover movement of his company. As enemy tanks and infantry advanced to within two hundred yards of his position, Technical Sergeant McIntyre skillfully held them off. He then established an observation post in a house and, under intense enemy tank and grenade fire, accurately adjusted mortar concentrations on the enemy until they were forced to withdraw. Technical Sergeant McIntyre's courage and initiative reflect much credit upon himself and the Armed Forces" - J.A. Ulio, Major General"