Former U.S. Army Corporal and WWII Veteran, Clarence Smoyer, finally received the Bronze Star Medal at the National WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C., after a long 75-year wait. The event brought together family, friends, former crewmates, history enthusiasts, and WWII reenactors to witness this significant moment honoring the brave Soldiers and tank crew.
Accompanied by the families of Pvt. Homer Davis, Pfc. John DeRiggi, and Tech. Cpl. William McVey, who posthumously received the Bronze Star Medal, Smoyer’s valor was recognized. Adam Makos, the author of “Spearhead,” presided over the ceremony, narrating the tale of Smoyer, famously known as the “Hero of Cologne.”
The historic event traced back to March 6, 1945, in Cologne, Germany, where the five-man Pershing tank crew, including Smoyer, Davis, DeRiggi, McVey, and Staff Sgt. Robert Earley, bravely faced a German Panther tank that had already taken down two American tanks and claimed three lives. Despite the odds, the crew of “Eagle 7” volunteered to confront the enemy tank, ultimately emerging victorious after a fierce battle witnessed by Army cameraman Tech. Sgt. Jim Bates.
Through precise coordination and sheer courage, the crew managed to disable the Panther tank with three shots, marking a significant triumph in the war. Smoyer’s actions that day solidified his place in history as a hero, despite facing challenges in receiving the Bronze Star Medal due to a minor infraction.
For years, Smoyer’s nomination for the award had been rejected, but with meticulous research and advocacy by Makos, the necessary testimonies were gathered to resubmit the award application. With the support of key figures like Sgt. Maj. Daniel Daily and Ryan McCarthy, the acting Secretary of the Army, the awards for Smoyer and his fellow crewmates were finally approved.
At the age of 96, Smoyer, unaware of the impending honor, was surprised with the Bronze Star Medal during what he thought was a routine book signing at the Pentagon. The emotional ceremony brought together family, friends, and fellow WWII veterans around the Sherman tank named “Eagle,” symbolizing the crew’s valor and camaraderie.
The legacy of “Eagle 7” lives on as possibly the most decorated tank crew of WWII, with a combined total of five Bronze Star Medals. The event was further elevated by the ceremonial support provided by Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment, including The U.S. Army Color Guard and The U.S. Army Brass Quintet, showcasing the military’s respect and recognition for Smoyer’s bravery and sacrifice.
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