TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

Mowinckel, John W.

Date of birth:
(Genoa, Italy)
Date of death:
May 7th, 2003 (United States)
Service number:
0-31017
Nationality:
American

Biography

Do you have more information about this person? Inform us!

Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
First Lieutenant (Lieutenant)
Unit:
OSS Services Detachment, Third Army, U.S. Army
Awarded on:
September 15th, 1945
"For gallantry as a member of the Office of Strategic Services Detachment, THIRD United States Army, in action in Austria. On 3 May 1945, Lieutenant Mowinckel courageously volunteered to infiltrate through enemy lines to establish contact with Russian units in the vicinity of Perg, Austria. Accompanied by two intelligence agents, he fearlessly proceeded through the enemy lines and, although halted and interrogated by German SS personnel, succeeded in continuing his vital mission. The information this intrepid officer obtained concerning the position of the approaching Russian elements and the disposition of enemy troops was an important contribution to the success of tactical operations. Lieutenant Mowinckel's courageous actions and unswerving devotion to duty war in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service."

Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 251
Silver Star Medal (SSM)

Sources

Photo