Medals and Ribbons of Honor

George Blake was for awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action against the enemy on 9 December 1944. His Silver Star Medal citation describes his courageous actions, stating "George C. Blake...Private First Class, Infantry, Company "D", 761st Tank Battalion, for gallantry in action against the enemy on 9 December 1944, in the vicinity of Norville Les Vic, France. Private First Class Blake, seeing many of his comrades wounded by artillery and small arms fire, dismounted from his 1/4 ton truck, and under intense artillery and mortar fire, carried the wounded to his truck and evacuated them to a medical aid station. Private First Class Blake returned and remained in the field during the night to administer first aid and evacuate the wounded. Private First Class Blake's courageous action and devotion to duty exemplifies the highest tradition of the Armed Forces. Entered military service from Worthington, Ohio." He served in the 761st Tank Battalion, which was the first African American tank unit of the United States Army.

The first image shown here displays the Silver Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal Ribbon, other medals and ribbons awarded to Blake, and his military id "dog tags". The second image shows the Silver Star Medal and Ribbon displayed in its case. The Silver Star is awarded to a soldier who is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force. The Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in active Federal Military service. The World War II Victory Medal was awarded to all military personnel for service between 7 December 1941 and 31 December 1946.