Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A United States of America Second War Silver Star and Bronze Star group of five awarded to Lieutenant B. C. Washburn, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, United States Army

United States of America, Silver Star, the reverse engraved ‘Ben C. Washburn’; Bronze Star, unnamed; American Campaign Medal; European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal; World War II Victory Medal; together with the recipient’s Combat Infantryman Badge, nearly extremely fine (5) £180-£220

Silver Star awarded per General Order 12, HQ 35th Infantry Division, on 15 February 1945.
The official citation states: ‘For gallantry in action in Belgium, on 2, 3, and 4 January 1945. When two companies of the Second Battalion, 134th Infantry, suffered the severing of their supply line by enemy action, Lieutenant Washburn reconnoitered for a route for the delivery of vital supplies. Despite the fact that the only route available traversed open terrain subjected to enemy machine gun and small arms fire, Lieutenant Washburn successfully led hand carrying parties during the nights of 2, 3, and 4 January, organized litter teams to evacuate the seriously wounded men of the two companies, and by his leadership, initiative, and resourcefulness, enabled the two units to continue their operations against the enemy.’

Bronze Star awarded per General Orders 58, HQ 35th Infantry Division, on 26 December 1944.
The official citation states: ‘For heroic service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States, in France, on 26 and 27 November 1944, Lieutenant Washburn, Transportation officer of the Second Battalion, 134th Infantry, personally reconnoitered a route to send supplies to attacking units in the nearby villages, as the only direct route into these villages was in enemy hands. Despite artillery and mortar fire, he succeeded in locating a suitable route, and on the night of 26 November, he brought four vehicles to a point between the two villages, then directed the carrying of supplies by hand to each of the villages. The same procedure was followed the next night. Throughout this operation, Lieutenant Washburn worked under heavy enemy fire, ensuring a constant flow of vital supplies to all companies at the front. His cool-headed resourcefulness and tireless devotion to duty reflect credit upon his character as an officer.’

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