Col. Ellis Bert Richie

SERVICE RECORD

War

Second World War and Korean War

Battle(s)

Sicilian and Italian campaigns. He made amphibious landings at Gela, Sicily, Salerno, and at Anzio-Nettuno.

HONORS & AWARDS

Award(s)

Silver Star for bravery before the enemy

Bronze Star

Commendation Medal with an Oak leaf Cluster

Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services

WAR EXPERIENCES

Col Ellis Bert Richie was a member of the Oklahoma National Guard, the 45th Division. He was awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star for heroism during his service in the Second World War. As well, he won three Bronze Clusters.

July 10, 1943 the division participated in their first of four amphibious landings. The National Guard Division of the southwest became highly regarded by both regular army forces and the enemy for their valiant efforts and fighting abilities.

The 45th Infantry Division served with General George S. Patton's U.S. 7th Army during the Sicilian campaign, and when the fighting was done, the commander had this to say about the division, "Your division is one of the best, if not the best division in the history of American arms."

In June of 1950 South Korea was invaded by North Korea. This action led to the second federal mobilization of the 45th Infantry Division. The Thunderbirds were one of only two National Guard divisions to see combat in the Korean War.

Colonel Ellis B. Richie retired in 1965 as professor of Military Science at Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pa. There he was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services. He was an outstanding, stand up, gentleman.

Colonel Richie and his wife retired in Tucson, Arizona, and later moved to El Paso, Texas, to be close to family.

Military Information: COL, US ARMY