An American Soldier In World War 2 - John F Mansfield

John F Mansfield's American Army Medals

An often overlooked area of Irish history is what our emigrants did when they left these shores. The museum currently has a small exhibit of medals won by a brave Waterford man fighting with the American Army in the Second World War. If you know of any expatriate that we should feature in an exhibition and have some material or information relating to them please get in touch at history@waterfordmuseum.ie

John F Mansfield 1906 - 1965

He was born at Ballinroad, Old Parish, Co Waterford on 6 February 1906 to James and Bridget Mansfield (nee Power).

John emigrated to America in 1924. Just before the Second World War he enlisted in the American army and served with the 4th Armoured Division - Third Army, from its founding in April 1942 until he ended up in Pilsin, Czechoslovakia in May 1945.

This Division was the spearhead attack from Normandy right into Germany and was known as 'Paton's Pride & Joy', having had the most days in combat of any unit of the Third Army. John was wounded twice and decorated on several occasions. Received honourable discharge on 19 October 1945 and he settled in New York where he died on 1 July 1965.

Awards Received

• Bronze Star for valour at the Battle of the Bulge
• Purple Heart with cluster after being wounded at Normandy and Metz
• European-African Middle Eastern Campaign ribbon
• Occupation of Germany Medal
• American Defence Medal
• Good Conduct Medal