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

Andreasen, Grant G. (USN)

Date of birth:
April 1st, 1916 (Grace/Idaho, United States)
Date of death:
May 6th, 1997 (Camarillo/Ventura County/California)
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

Lt. (jg) Grant G. Andreasen, USNR, Homer, Idaho: As scout boat officer during the invasion of Normandy, he succeeded in the highly important mission of locating the beaches to be assaulted and went in close to the beach to act as a guide for the approaching wave of DD tanks. From an advanced position he fired rockets from his craft, at target objectives and rendered close fire support to the infantry assault waves. Later he rescued wounded personnel from burning landing craft under heavy enemy fire and carried them to safety.

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

Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Lieutenant Junior Grade
Unit:
U.S. Navy Reserve
Official Citation:
"For conspicuous bravery in the performance of outstanding services as Scout Boat Officer during the amphibous assault on the coast of France, June 6, 1944.
Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Andreasen embarked in one of the first craft to approach the strongly defendes Normandy coast and succeeded in the highly important mission of locating the beaches to be assaulted. Despite heavy surf and harassing enemy fire, he went in close to the beach to act as a guide for the approaching wave of DD tanks. While he was in this advanced position he fired the rockets from his craft at target objectives, moved in closer to the beach, and rendered close fire support for the infantry assault waves.
In addition to his assigned duties, without regard for his own personal safety and under heavy enemy fire he rescued wounded personnel from burning landing craft and carried them to safety.
The outstanding devotion to duty and courage under fire displayed by Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Andreasen were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
Navy Cross

Sources

Photos