Malone aids in routing jab tanks

MALONE

Posted By: Volunteer (email)
Date: 7/2/2007 at 19:38:29

Source: Burlington Iowa Hawk-Eye Gazette Wednesday, April 4, 1945 page 2

Malone aids in routing Jap tanks

For heroism in action against the Japanese at Asta, Luzon, P.I, February 7, Corporal Donald V. Malone, 1706 S. 15th St. (Burlington) has been awarded the Bronze Star medal by the commanding general of the sixth infantry division.

Malone, who was wounded, was serving as ammunition corporal of a 155mm howitzer section at the time his battalion, which was located in an open field with no natural cover, was brought under attack by enemy tanks during the early hours of the morning. The citation reads: "As the force approached, the battalion area was subjected to intense 47mm, machine gun and small arms fire. In total darkness while under constant fire from the enemy, Malone and his gun section shifted the trails of their howitzer, placing it in a position to fire on the approaching tanks. Malone's crew fired 23 rounds of high explosives on the enemy scoring an undetermined number of hits and destroying two tanks. The coolness displayed by Malone and other members of the crew and their skillful handling of the howitzer under intense fire contributed largely to the destruction of the enemy force. Malone's courage and devotion to duty reflect highest credit upon himself and the military service."

Before going to Luzon, Malone was stationed in New Guinea, where he participated in the Sanspor and Maffin Bay campaigns.

Son of Mrs. Grace Malone, of Rock Island, (Illinois) former resident of Burlington, he was wounded in the abdomen by shrapnel. He is reported to be recovering satisfactorily. Malone enlisted in the Army when 19, and has served for years.