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First American in European theater recalls long frontline stint
Sgt JOE McCARTHY profiles Pfc Milburn H Henke from Hutchinson Minn who landed in Belfast Jan 26 1942 as the first American in the European theater. The piece details the 1st Battalion 133d Infantry in the Red Bull Division across Tunis and Italy, highlighting combat runs, rest periods, and an outstanding medal tally. It notes heavy frontline time, few remaining original GIs, and the unit’s extensive time under fire with numerous Bronze Stars Silver Stars and Legions of Merit awarded.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Fifth Army
Italy
Pfc
Milburn H. Henke
Hutchinson
Henke
States
Tunisia
133D
Red Bull
Belfast
Baker Company
Europe
Hill 609
Salerno
Castelnuovo
Volturno
Ashcan Hill
San Mario de Oliveto
Rapido
Cassino
Anzio
Tarquinia
John F. Weidler
Wichita Falls
Tex
Ned Levinson
Bronx
N. Y
San Vincenzo
Cecina
Mount Maggiore
Mediterranean
Leghorn
Florence