Richard R. Armstrong
Era: World War II
Military Branch: Army
Richard R. Armstrong
Mr. Armstrong entered the Army in 1943.
He served as Technical Sergeant, squad leader and platoon guide, landing with the 70th Infantry Division in Southern France. Combat service in Alsace-Lorraine, the Saar River and Moselle River crossings, and in Central Germany.
He served in Germany with the Occupation forces. Also postwar service as an Infantry Platoon Sergeant with the Third Infantry Division and the 78th Infantry Division in Frankfurt-on-Main, Kasel, and Berlin. Toured Europe with the Third Division rifle team.
He was awarded the following: Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, European-African-Middle East Campaign Medal, Army of Occupation Service Medal with Germany clasp, and World War II Victory Medal.
From the Silver Star citation: "T/Sgt. Armstrong was decorated with the Silver Star for Gallantry for action January 11, 1945, near Obermuhlthal, Germany. His unit was pinned down by machine gun and rifle fire from an enemy patrol. Sergeant Armstrong crawled alone to the flank of the enemy and opened fire with his rifle, permitting his unit to overcome the opposition and accomplish its mission."
In the words of his daughter: "Our dad was truly a patriotic citizen -- flying the American flag daily and instilling into his four children to love, honor and respect our country, National Anthem and flag. He passed away June 14, 1992 on Flag Day. He was not only a hero in the war but also in the eyes of his children."
Source: Hometown Heroes: The Saint Louis County World War II Project, page 26.
