Loyd J. Parcel

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Loyd J. Parcel (37669177), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 158th Engineer Combat Battalion, on 19 December 1944, in Belgium. Stationed at a major road intersection s a member of a rocket launcher team, Private First Class Parcel observed five German tanks approaching. When his weapon failed to fire, he dispatched his comrade to the rear to obtain reinforcements while he remained along at his post. Enemy infantrymen infiltrated into the area and mounted two machine guns to fire upon an advancing convoy. With great personal courage, Private First Class Parcel threw two hand grenades which destroyed both guns and crews. His gallant actions permitted an assault gun of his road block to open fire, retarded the enemy’s advance and prevented the destruction of a friendly convoy. By his fearless courage and bravery, Private First Class Parcel reflected great credit on himself and the military service.