Sgt. James P. Connor Memorial Circle

Born in Wilmington, Delaware, on January 12, 1919, James P. Connor entered the U.S. Army in January 1941. As a member of the 7th Infantry, 3rd Division, he took part in the amphibious landing at Cape Cavalaire in southern France. On August 15, 1944, Connor was assigned to a battle patrol whose mission was to destroy enemy fortifications that threatened troops coming ashore. Seriously wounded by a mine that killed his platoon lieutenant, he refused medical aid and inspired the men to cross a mine-saturated beach under intense fire. Though wounded again, he led the patrol through nearly impregnable mortar concentrations. Despite receiving a third grave wound that left him unable to stand, he continued to give orders and direct the assault. Reduced to less than one-third of its original strength, the patrol took all its assigned objectives, successfully completed its mission, and as a result saved many lives. Discharged in 1945, Connor returned to Delaware, where he lived until his death on July 27, 1994. For his bravery, devotion, and sacrifice, he received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Delaware · United States