John Grimball

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John Grimball, First Lieutenant (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 14th Tank Battalion, 9th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 March 1945, in the vicinity of Ramagen Bridge, in Germany. First Lieutenant Grimball’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Armored Division, and the United States Army.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John Grimball (0-1013447), First Lieutenant (Armor), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 14th Tank Battalion, 9th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 December 1944, in the vicinity of Steinbruck, Belgium. On that date, First Lieutenant Grimball, in command of a tank platoon, was proceeding on a mission of support to an infantry battalion when enemy bazooka fire rendered his command tank inoperative. Showing rare presence of mind, First Lieutenant Grimball ordered his crew to remain within the tank and by radio directed effective platoon fire, eliminating the enemy bazooka team. First Lieutenant Grimball then ordering his crew to dismount and follow him, preceded these men and his tanks to a new position. There First Lieutenant Grimball directed his tank platoon and dismounted crew under continuous enemy fire with such stunning effect of enemy demoralization that 87 prisoners were taken. First Lieutenant Grimball then mounted another tank and continuing his aggressive tactics, he destroyed a dug-in enemy tank while proceeding to his original mission of support to the infantry. Upon reaching the infantry position, he noted that it was in dire need of tank support. He thereupon deployed his tank platoon into position so as to render direct fire support to the infantry. This action prevented a large scale enemy penetration. First Lieutenant Grimball’s initiative and courageous leadership was an inspiration to his men which enabled them to successfully complete their mission. The gallantry displayed by First Lieutenant Grimball reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Armored Division, and the United States Army.