Army board to consider whether Clinton County native should get Medal of Honor. Should he or shouldn't he?

CSM Michael Lynch — Thu, 07 May 2015 09:43:38 -0400

I say he should receive it based on the eyewitness accounts in the article. To singlehandedly do what he did is amazing. I'm sure the Army will make the right decision for this WWII hero. Thank you for your service and paving the path for the rest of us. Total respect and Salutes to him and his spouse

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Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made May 7 at 2015 9:49 AM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Thu, 07 May 2015 09:49:50 -0400

Calling in fire "Danger Close" took some guts, and this guy had guts, but I think the determination will hinge on whether his selfless actions directly saved the lives of others.

Response by CPT Bob Moore made May 7 at 2015 9:52 AM

CPT Bob Moore — Thu, 07 May 2015 09:52:12 -0400

I'm usually not a big fan of efforts to upgrade medals after the fact, unless there was clearly an error, discrimination, etc.

However, this one looks like it has the backing and information that might make it justified. The eyewitness accounts that weren't considered previously are extremely important and could make the difference. While I respect Stephan Ambrose, I put more weight on those eyewitness accounts than his opinion.

Even if they don't upgrade the medal that he earned for this specific action, he is still a legitimate war hero and his family should be proud:
"Conner earned four Silver Stars, four Bronze Stars, seven Purple Hearts and the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions during 28 straight months of combat during World War II"

Edit: I also need to give him props for being a fellow Kentuckian.

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made May 7 at 2015 10:20 AM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Thu, 07 May 2015 10:20:29 -0400

*duplicate response - please delete*

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made May 7 at 2015 10:20 AM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Thu, 07 May 2015 10:20:21 -0400

*duplicate response - please delete*

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made May 7 at 2015 10:21 AM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Thu, 07 May 2015 10:21:04 -0400

He should get it - apparently the eyewitness statements were not considered, but when I consider them, he's a hero! :-)

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 7 at 2015 3:43 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Thu, 07 May 2015 15:43:06 -0400

While I do not question what he did, I always have a problem when people campaign for awards.

Yes, he called in fire on advancing armor...but that is not single handed stopping the advancing Germans. IF he had not received any awards or recognition, I might be more understanding but he did receive the second highest award, and I guess I am missing something because the man has passed, and the war is long over?