Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

2nd Battalion, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division "Timberwolf", U.S. Army (2nd Battalion, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division "Timberwolf Division", U.S. Army)

Sergeant Clifford P. Hinkel, 36709357, (then Private), 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against the enemy. On 26 October 1944, the battalion in which Sergeant Hinkel was a machine gunner was subjected to an enemy counterattack which had encompassed the left flank of their position. The enemy had brought forward machine guns and, with intense fire, pinned Sergeant Hinkel and his fellow soldiers to the ground. Entirely on his own initiative Sergeant Hinkel seized his own heavy machine gun and, without fear or hesitation dragged it forward more than one hundred yards through intense enemy machine gun and sniper fire. Completely disregarding his own personal safety, he set up his weapon within plain view of the enemy and opened fire. For more than thirty minutes he poured fire into the enemy position, causing many casualties and neutralizing the enemy fire in that sector. Through the valiant, voluntary act of Sergeant Hinkel, a grave threat to his battalion was averted. The extraordinary heroism and courageous actions of Sergeant Hinkel reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. Entered military service from Illinois.