WWII Veteran Edward J. Walsh Posthumously Awarded Medals for Heroic Actions

CRANSTON, RI – The late Edward J. Walsh, Sr. helped launch the first wave of air assault operations on D-Day, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, was shot in the head and wounded by a German sniper, and earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his heroic actions during World War II.

Today, six decades later, the proud family of Mr. Walsh -- who passed away on March 11, 2014, at the age of 89 -- was presented with several medals and military decorations for his courageous service by U.S. Senator Jack Reed. 

During a ceremony in his Cranston office, Senator Reed presented Mr. Walsh’s widow, Hope Walsh, with the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.  Mr. Walsh also earned several other medals and commendations during his WWII service as a member of the renowned 101st Airborne Division—the “Screaming Eagles,” including: the Good Conduct Medal; Presidential Unit Citation with 1 bronze oak leaf cluster; European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 3 bronze stars; World War II Victory Medal; Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII; Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar; Parachutist Badge-Basic; and the Combat Infantryman Badge. 

“Sadly, we are too late to formally recognize Mr. Walsh’s heroic service in person, but it is never too late to thank and honor him for his uncommon bravery and valor.  The memory of what he and his fellow soldiers did will not fade.  Mr. Walsh and his fellow paratroopers were truly remarkable men.  They gave so much to our nation, both on the battlefield and when they returned home from war.  I salute Edward J. Walsh, Sr., his family, and the band of brothers he so valiantly fought alongside and served with during World War II,” said Reed, a senior member of the Armed Services Committee.

Born in Providence, and formerly of Edgewood, Edward Walsh was a paratrooper with Easy Company of the 501^st Parachute Infantry Regiment the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles.  On D-Day, June 6, 1944, Walsh jumped into France, helping to launch the Normandy invasion.  He also parachuted into Holland as part of Operation Market Garden.  Walsh later fought in the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium where he was shot in the head by a German sniper in a snow-covered forest, leaving his right side permanently paralyzed.

Upon returning home, Mr. Walsh worked for J.J. Crimmings, a Boston publishing house, and RI Dental for many years. 

Edward and Hope Walsh were married for 66 years, and have three daughters, three sons, fifteen grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

-end-