World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. A native of Oklahoma, he joined the United States Army on January 16, 1944 and obtained the rank of staff sergeant with the all black Company A, 761st Tank Battalion. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in France in November 1944. His citation reads, "For extraordinary heroism in action during the 15-19 November 1944, toward Guebling, France. Though severely wounded in the leg, Sergeant Rivers refused medical treatment and evacuation, took command of another tank, and advanced with his company in Guebling the next day. Repeatedly refusing evacuation, Sergeant Rivers continued to direct his tank's fire at enemy positions through the morning of 19 November 1944. At dawn, Company A's tanks began to advance towards Bougaktroff, but were stopped by an enemy fire. Sergeant Rivers, joined by another tank, opened fire on the enemy tanks, covering company A as they withdrew. While doing so, Sergeant River's tank was hit, killing him and wounding the crew. Staff Sergeant Rivers' fighting spirit and daring leadership were an inspiration to his unit and exemplifying the highest traditions of military service." Rivers was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously on January 13, 1997, fifty-three years after his death. He had previously been awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.
World War II Medal of Honor Recipient. A native of Oklahoma, he joined the United States Army on January 16, 1944 and obtained the rank of staff sergeant with the all black Company A, 761st Tank Battalion. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in France in November 1944. His citation reads, "For extraordinary heroism in action during the 15-19 November 1944, toward Guebling, France. Though severely wounded in the leg, Sergeant Rivers refused medical treatment and evacuation, took command of another tank, and advanced with his company in Guebling the next day. Repeatedly refusing evacuation, Sergeant Rivers continued to direct his tank's fire at enemy positions through the morning of 19 November 1944. At dawn, Company A's tanks began to advance towards Bougaktroff, but were stopped by an enemy fire. Sergeant Rivers, joined by another tank, opened fire on the enemy tanks, covering company A as they withdrew. While doing so, Sergeant River's tank was hit, killing him and wounding the crew. Staff Sergeant Rivers' fighting spirit and daring leadership were an inspiration to his unit and exemplifying the highest traditions of military service." Rivers was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously on January 13, 1997, fifty-three years after his death. He had previously been awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.
Bio by: Laura Jackson
Family Members
Other Records
Advertisement
