h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hello FS

I have foun an entry that needs writing by US citizen who has an interest in the military.

Interested

PS as it happens I can supply phots

A US soldier Pvt James McRacken 315th Eng Bat of the 90th Division, who helped to save a key bridge across the river Mayenne

In an operation code named Task Force Weaver. In fighting on August 5th 1944. In an operation commanded by Maj Edward Hamilton, they took the bridge and liberated Mayenne only because James McRacken and an other marime voulentered to de fuse the German mines that were set to demolish the bridge. The greatful citizens of the city named the bridge after James McRacken who after defusing the bridge and displaying amazing bravery was KIA.

James McRacken's family are still honoured by the town and are still invited to attend official memorial functions at the expence of the town.

NB there was another marine who was also killed helping Mc Racken but recearch will be needed.


Just your sort of entry

Hi bob;

Thanks for the suggestion, unfortunately it is very hard to research events this recent in history. It generally takes 75 to 100 years for copyrights to lapse.

Also, there are too many who have distinguished themselves in service and given their life to ever recognize them all.

The highest medal in US service is 'The Congressional Medal of Honor' this has been presented a total of 3,487 times, with 19 double recipients, since its inception in 1861.

The 'Victoria Cross' has been awarded 1,357 times since 1852 to 3,354 individual recipients.

This alone could amount to almost 5,000 Entries. Almost half of the existing Guide

This does not include the thousands of recipients of other honours and those who's acts of valour slipped between the cracks.

I did a few searches for Pvt James McRacken, but could not find much beyond your few words posted here.

Please feel free to tell me about any interesting stories you come across, but I'm afraid it is impossible to cover them all



F S

oops 1,354

it was just that this man is somewhat of a local hero in Mayenne and that made him stand out more than the many other US heros of WW II

I think what would be best is an Entry on Mayenne itself. It sounds to me like you have been there and enjoyed it. A history of the town, with a section on WWII would be appropriate. A conclusion about visiting today could make a great Guide Entry

Although I have written several Entries that centre on war and the people involved I always try to emphasize the human aspect of the individuals. Do you know why this particular private soldier is remembered above all the others?

If I were to write about Pvt James McRacken I would have to know about his family, education, significant relationship (was he married or engaged?) and his hopes and dreams.

A simple mention that he is remembered with respect could honour his memory without any detail.
I think you are the far better Researcher to write this than myself. World War II is not a speciality of mine, but I did grow up in its shadow. My Father joined the action at 'The Bulge' and continued to the occupation of Berlin, so I am aware of a few of the thing that happened. If I can be of any help feel free to ask, but I think this should be your Entry with an idea of helping anyone who wants or needs to visit the area today. In that context James can be mentioned without the other details.

Thanks for thinking of me



F S

Your father and mine were in the same area at the same time then