WWII Tank Battalion at the Forefront

Here's some info covering one of the most valiant battalions in American history. They entered World War II in 1944, pushing their tanks to the frontlines and clearing the way for foot soldiers. The battalion was nominated six times between 1945 and 1976 for their efforts, but the unit's award was not presented until 1978. The 761st, comprised of black soldiers, was also known for their contributions before the Battle of the Bulge. Despite the lack of supplies and sometimes re-enforcements, they were able to prevail and crush German forces. They took part in many allied campaigns and destroyed every Panzer in sight. Here's an excerpt from one of the sites online :

The German breakthrough in the Ardennes Forest precipitated the famous action known the world over as the Battle of the Bulge. The 761st was tasked with taking the German strong hold in the town of Tillet. Every other American unit assigned to take the town had been beaten back. Tanks, artillery, and infantry inside the Ardennes Forest had assaulted Tillet and all had failed to take it. After a week of steady fighting against entrenched SS troops, the 761st took Tillet and drove the Germans out in full retreat. These are but a few of their remarkable accomplishments.

And a description from the military award they received :

The 761st Tank Battalion distinguished itself by extraordinary gallantry, courage, professionalism and high esprit de corps displayed in the accomplishment of unusually difficult and hazardous operations in the European Theater of Operations from 31 October 1944 to 6 May 1945. During 183 days in combat, elements of the 761st - the first United States Army tank battalion committed to battle comprised of black soldiers - were responsible for inflicting thousands of enemy casualties and for capturing, destroying, or aiding in the liberation of more than 30 major towns, 4 airfields, 3 ammunition supply dumps, 461 wheeled vehicles, 34 tanks, 113 large guns, 1 radio station, and numerous individual and crew-served weapons. This was accomplished while enduring an overall casualty rate approaching 50 percent, the loss of 71 tanks, and in spite of extremely adverse weather conditions, very difficult terrain not suited to armor operations, heavily fortified enemy positions and units, and extreme shortages of replacement personnel and equipment.

Some more links and info over here : 761st Division in World War II