Berlie A. Baumgardner
PVT Berlie A. Baumgardner
8th INF, 4th INF DIV
Nov. 25 , 1924 - July 28, 1944
Berlie A. Baumgardner was born in Washington County, OK, on November 25, 1924, to parents John and Mary Baumgardner. Berlie was the eldest of four children, with one brother and two sisters. He enter the Army on July 3, 1943. He was killed in action on July 28, 1944. He was awarded a Purple Heart. (We have very limited information about this veteran. Any assistance you can provide, especially a photograph or additional details, would be greatly appreciated.)
On July 28, 1944, the 8th Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division was actively engaged in Operation Cobra, the Allied offensive designed to break out from the Normandy beachhead. Initiated on July 25, Operation Cobra aimed to exploit weakened German defenses and advance through the bocage (hedgerow) terrain of Normandy. It is possible that PVT Berlie Baumgardner was killed while participating in this type of action.
By July 28, the 8th Infantry Regiment was advancing southward from the vicinity of Périers, pushing through German lines as part of the broader effort to encircle and defeat German forces in the region. The regiment faced challenges such as navigating the dense hedgerow countryside and overcoming sporadic but determined German resistance. Their progress contributed to the rapid Allied advance that led to the liberation of Coutances by the 4th Armored Division on the same day.
The successful actions of the 8th Infantry Regiment and other Allied units during this period were instrumental in weakening German positions in Normandy, ultimately facilitating the breakout from the beachhead and the subsequent liberation of Paris in August 1944.
A BRIEF REVIEW OF The 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division
The 8th Infantry Regiment, part of the U.S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division, played a pivotal role in the European Theater during World War II. Their actions, beginning with the D-Day landings and extending through the liberation of Europe, exemplify the courage and determination of American forces during the conflict.
D-Day: Utah Beach Landing
On June 6, 1944, the 8th Infantry Regiment spearheaded the assault on Utah Beach during the Normandy landings. At 6:30 a.m., the 2nd Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Carlton O. MacNeely, became the first Allied seaborne unit to land on the beach. Strong currents caused the landing craft to drift approximately 2,000 yards south of their intended target, placing them in a less fortified area. This fortunate mislanding resulted in lighter resistance and fewer casualties. Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt Jr., who accompanied the first wave, famously declared, “We’ll start the war from right here,” deciding to proceed from the unexpected landing point.
Captain Leonard T. Schroeder of Company F is recognized as the first American soldier to set foot on Utah Beach. Despite being wounded twice during the landing, he continued to lead his men inland, exemplifying the bravery and leadership that characterized the regiment’s actions that day.
Advancing Through France
Following the successful landing, the 8th Infantry Regiment advanced inland, linking up with airborne units and participating in the liberation of key towns, including Sainte-Mère-Église. They played a significant role in the capture of Cherbourg on June 25, 1944, securing a vital port for the Allies. The regiment continued its push through France, contributing to the liberation of Paris in August 1944.
Combat in Belgium and Germany
The regiment’s advance led them into Belgium and eventually into Germany. They faced fierce resistance during the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, a grueling campaign characterized by difficult terrain and well-entrenched German defenses. Despite heavy casualties, the 8th Infantry Regiment persisted, contributing to the eventual Allied breakthrough.([Furious Fourth][5], [Warfare History Network][6])
During the Battle of the Bulge, the regiment held critical positions against the German offensive, demonstrating resilience and tactical proficiency. Their actions during these campaigns earned them multiple commendations, including citations from the Belgian Army .([Wikipedia][7])
Honors and Recognition
Throughout World War II, the 8th Infantry Regiment distinguished itself in numerous engagements, earning several honors:
Presidential Unit Citation: Awarded for extraordinary heroism during the D-Day landings.
Belgian Fourragère: Bestowed for the regiment’s actions during the Belgian Campaign and the Battle of the Ardennes.
These accolades reflect the regiment’s significant contributions to the Allied victory in Europe.