As a studious man of history, I have many heroes yet find it difficult to pick a single one to name. While I don't have a story to tell, I will simply share the Silver Star Citation of my Uncle, Major Gomez Cahoon. I believe his actions epitomize the very notion of the word hero.
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Major (Infantry) Gomez B. Cahoon (ASN: 0-398851), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 21 February 1945, in the vicinity of Stiftswald, France. His battalion repeatedly subjected to severe enemy counterattacks, and despite the imminent peril of bursting artillery and mortar fire, Major Cahoon, Battalion Commander, was tireless through the critical night. He skillfully directed the battalion's defenses, insured measures of security, determined that the men were properly dug in and that their fields of fire were most effectively grouped. Attacked by hostile tanks, he personally directed the battalion's fire, knocking out one, forcing others to withdraw. Still vigorously in action at daylight, he was killed while probing enemy positions. His vital, valorous and inspirational leadership were the decisive elements which held the troops in a seemingly untenable position, were the backbone of the battalion's resistance, and exemplify the highest qualities of the Armed Forces of the United States.
General Orders: Headquarters, 70th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 22 (March 23, 1945)
Woodstock, GA
