Photo By Staff Sgt. Noah Sladek | Current and former Marne Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division (3rd ID) and military...... read more read more
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SALZBURG, Austria — On a serene morning, a plaque unveiling ceremony took place, commemorating the 79th anniversary of 3rd Infantry Division’s (3rdID) liberation of Salzburg here, May 4, 2024.
The event, held at the Salzburg Airport, not only honored the historical event but also symbolized the enduring spirit of reconciliation and peace.
The unveiling ceremony, attended by military attaches, military personnel and local community members, served as a reminder of the events that transpired decades ago. It marked a unique opportunity to learn about the bravery and sacrifice of those involved in ensuring a peaceful transition of power.
The plaque honored the legacy of two Medal of Honor recipients, Capt. Charles P. Murray Jr and 2nd Lt. Audie Murphy.
Speaking at the ceremony, retired U.S. Army Capt. C. Monika Stoy, president of The Outpost 5845, International Outpost of the Society of the 3rd Infantry Division, emphasized the importance of remembering the past while embracing a future built on peace and cooperation.
“This plaque will carry the legacy of the 3rd Infantry Division Soldiers from World War II well into the future and reinforces the importance of the Austria-United States relationship,” Stoy remarked.
Henry Joe, whose grandfather served in the 3rd Battalion 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd ID, the battalion present at the liberation of Salzburg 79 years ago, expressed what the event meant to him.
“He and all the other 20-year-olds that came over to a place that they barely knew and spent their days liberating people they never met, to come here and see what he went through, it means everything,” said Joe.
“I just wish that more folks were cognizant of the sacrifices that these young men gave," said Joe. "Just coming up to visit a place where he had been and remember him, that's the least I can do.”
Murphy, the most decorated Soldier of World War II, received his medal on June 2, 1945, for the events of Jan. 26, 1945, where he repelled an enemy German force and led his men in a counterattack that ultimately drove the enemy from Holtzwihr.
Capt. Murray received his medal July 5, 1945 after demonstrating remarkable bravery during a fierce battle near Kaysersberg, France Dec. 16, 1944. His courageous actions halted a counterattack, established a crucial advance position, and served as an inspiring example of heroism under fire.
In commemorating the 79th anniversary of Salzburg's peaceful surrender and by cementing the legacy of 3rd ID Soldiers on a plaque at the Salzburg Airport, 3rd ID remains committed to strengthening the bonds with its allies overseas.
| Date Taken: | 05.04.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 05.06.2024 16:22 |
| Story ID: | 470357 |
| Location: | SALZBURG, AT |
| Web Views: | 64 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 3rd Infantry Division commemorates 79th anniversary of the liberation of Salzburg, by PFC Luciano Alcala, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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