Bernard Pious Bell

Bernard Pious Bell

Bernard Pious Bell (29 December 1911 – January 1971) was a United States Army warrant officer whose extraordinary courage during the Second World War earned him the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star. Serving with Company I, 142nd Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, Bell became one of the most effective small-unit leaders of the European campaign, repeatedly defeating numerically superior German forces through audacity, aggressive leadership, and exceptional battlefield skill. (Congressional Medal of Honor Society)

Born in Grantsville, West Virginia, Bell entered the U.S. Army in August 1942 from New York City. By late 1944 his regiment was fighting in the bitter campaign to liberate eastern France. On 5 December 1944, near Sélestat, Bell earned the Distinguished Service Cross after charging a heavily defended enemy building alone, forcing its occupants to surrender before leading the assault that captured a German factory complex and more than eighty prisoners. His fearless leadership broke a strongly defended position and allowed his platoon to continue its advance. (Hall of Valor)

Just thirteen days later, during the fierce fighting around Mittelwihr, France, Bell performed the actions for which he received the Medal of Honor. Leading an eight-man squad against a German-held schoolhouse, he captured enemy guards, compelled dozens of Germans to surrender, and then held the position against repeated counterattacks. Despite relentless artillery, mortar, and small-arms fire, Bell repeatedly exposed himself to repair communications, direct supporting armour, and encourage his men. Over two days of combat, his tiny squad drove back an estimated 150 German soldiers, killing at least 87, capturing 42, while Bell himself was credited with killing more than twenty enemy troops and capturing thirty-three. His remarkable courage and leadership transformed a seemingly hopeless defence into a decisive American victory. (Congressional Medal of Honor Society)

President Harry S. Truman presented Bell with the Medal of Honor at the White House on 23 August 1945, recognizing one of the most extraordinary acts of individual leadership by an American infantryman during the Second World War. Bell left the Army later that year with the rank of Warrant Officer and subsequently worked for the Veterans Administration, continuing his service to fellow veterans in civilian life. (Congressional Medal of Honor Society)

Bernard Pious Bell died in January 1971 and was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. His Medal of Honor and other decorations are preserved in his home state, ensuring that the legacy of one of America’s bravest soldiers continues to inspire future generations. (Congressional Medal of Honor Society)