All information courtesy Edward Bonk.

Article from Scranton, Pennsylvania, newspaper, The Tribune – Scrantonian, 18 March 1945.

HERO OF AFRICA, INVASION BATTLES, HOME FOR REST

Tech Sgt. Joseph A. Toth holder of the Silver Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Presidential Citation, and Infantry Combat Badge is spending a 30-day furlough with his father, Stephen Toth [Joe’s mother, Marcella Toth, had been killed by a hit-and-run driver while he was overseas.], 1708 Clearview St. after serving in the US Army since before the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Sergeant Toth received his training at Fort Deven Mass and Camp Blanding Fl. He was a member of the contingent that passed through Scranton in 1941 and was reviewed by Teddy Roosevelt Jr. He left Indiantown Gap in June 1942 for England with one of the first convoy’s to go overseas. He was later transferred to Africa where he participated in the battles for Tunisia, the Kassarine Pass and Tunis.

After training at Algiers, he returned to England where he prepared for the invasion of Sicily. He was awarded the Oak Leaf Cluster in August 1943 for gallantry in action in the vicinity of Troina. ”During a bitter engagement with enemy, Sergeant Toth boldly proceeded to an exposed position and directed harassing fire on the attacking forces to permit his company to reorganize and evacuate its casualties. His dauntless courage and aggressive spirit, despite intense mortar and small arms activity were instrumental in saving many lives” according to the citation which he received.

One of the unforgettable moments that Sergeant Toth recalls is the invasion of France on D-Day. ”It was just like a long caravan and an event that all who participated in will never forget.”

For his action in France, Sergeant Toth received the citation for the Oak Leaf Cluster to the Silver Star for gallantry in action against the enemy in the vicinity of France June 6 1944. ”Mindful of personal safety, he made numerous trips to the perilous sea to rescue wounded, helpless comrades. His gallant deeds, performed under intense enemy fire saved many lives and reflects great credit upon the service”.

Toth was a member of the First Division which went through Belgium, the Siegfried Line, to the outskirts of Cologne. He also wears the ETO Bar with three battle stars. Upon completion of his furlough, he will return to Fort Dix, NJ for reassignment.