DODD, CARL H.
Rank and organization:
1st Lieutenant (then 2d Lt.), Company E, 5th Regimental Combat Team
Entered
service at:
Kenvir, KY
1st Lt. Dodd, Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous
gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in
action against the enemy. First Lt. Dodd, given the responsibility
of spearheading an attack to capture Hill 256, a key terrain feature
defended by a well-armed, crafty foe who had withstood several
previous assaults, led his platoon forward over hazardous terrain
under hostile small-arms, mortar, and artillery fire from
well-camouflaged enemy emplacements which reached such intensity
that his men faltered. With utter disregard for his safety, 1st Lt.
Dodd moved among his men, reorganized and encouraged them, and then
single-handedly charged the first hostile machinegun nest, killing
or wounding all its occupants. Inspired by his incredible courage,
his platoon responded magnificently and, fixing bayonets and
throwing grenades, closed on the enemy and wiped out every hostile
position as it moved relentlessly onward to its initial objective.
Securing the first series of enemy positions, 1st Lt. Dodd again
reorganized his platoon and led them across a narrow ridge and onto
Hill 256. Firing his rifle and throwing grenades, he advanced at the
head of his platoon despite the intense concentrated hostile fire
which was brought to bear on their narrow avenue of approach. When
his platoon was still 200 yards from the objective he moved ahead
and with his last grenade destroyed an enemy mortar killing the
crew. Darkness then halted the advance but at daybreak 1st Lt. Dodd,
again boldly advancing ahead of his unit, led the platoon through a
dense fog against the remaining hostile positions. With bayonet and
grenades he continued to set pace without regard for the danger to
his life, until he and his troops had eliminated the last of the
defenders and had secured the final objective. First Lt. Dodd's
superb leadership and extraordinary heroism inspired his men to
overcome this strong enemy defense reflecting the highest credit
upon himself and upholding the esteemed traditions of the military
service.
Compiler: Merry Helm, Association Historian
Link: Carl H. Dodd - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia