Roy M. Hanna

Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 February 1944, near Carroceto, Italy. During a long and sustained attack against strong enemy positions a company suffered heavy casualties and lost its combat effectiveness. Because of the critical nature of the situation, First Lieutenant Hanna was ordered to reorganize the company and launch a diversionary attack to lessen pressure on another unit attacking the objective from the opposite direction. First Lieutenant Hanna successfully withdrew the elements of the company still in contact with the enemy, reorganized the unit and led his men in an assault against overwhelming enemy odds. While exposing himself to heavy enemy fire in order to lead his unit, he received a rifle bullet through the chest. In spite of his wound, First Lieutenant Hanna personally led the attack until he collapsed unconscious on the field. His courageous performance and his gallant leadership inspired his men to press the attack and to complete the mission successfully. First Lieutenant Hanna'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 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 77 (May 10, 1944)