John Joseph McVeigh (September 26, 1921 – August 29, 1944) was a United States Army soldier and a recipient of the United States highest military decoration —the Medal of Honor—for his actions during the Battle for Brest in World War II.

Early life John Joseph McVeigh was born Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on 26 September, 1921. His family was hit hard by the Great Depression; Unable to keep the household together, they sent him to live with his aunt and uncle who owned a bar. Before entering the army he worked at a rustproofing company.Draft Registration Cards for Pennsylvania, 10/16/1940 - 03/31/1947; The National Archives in St. Louis, Missouri.

Military service McVeigh entered the army in Philadelphia in September 1942.WWII Army Enlistment Records He trained at Camp McCoy and his unit was shipped to Northern Ireland in October 1943. By August 29, 1944, was serving as a sergeant in Company H, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. During a German counterattack on that day, near Brest, France, he directed his squad's fire and, when his position was almost overrun, single-handedly charged the Germans with his only weapon, a trench knife. McVeigh was killed in the attack and, on April 6, 1945. On 20 April, 1945, his daughter, Joan. was presented the Medal of Honor, at Independence Hall, Philadelphia, by Brigadier General Malcolm F. Lindsey.

McVeigh, aged 22 at his death, was buried in the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Cheltenham, Pennsylvania.

Medal of Honor citation Sergeant McVeigh's official Medal of Honor citation reads:

See also

List of Medal of Honor recipients

References

Sources