Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

S-3 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Citation:
Don B. Dunham (O-293027), Major, 504th Parachute Infantry, for extraordinary heroism in action. On 17 September 1943, about one-half mile northeast of Altavilla, Italy, when the Headquarters of his Regiment had been surrounded by enemy forces, Major Dunham volunteered to go out in the face of enemy artillery, machine gun, and rifle fire to obtain reinforcements, after two previous messengers had been fatally wounded. In the course of pursuing this mission, Major Dunham was killed. That Major Dunham volunteered to seek reinforcements for his Headquarters in the face of almost certain death was an inspiration to the men and officers of his Regiment. The unusual courage, self-sacrifice and devotion to duty displayed by Major Dunham reflect the finest traditions of the Army of the United States and are deserving of the highest praise. Entered military service from Lemon Cove, California.

Awarded posthumously