Born in 1918. Bernard Byrne graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1919. He retired in 1954 as a U.S. Army Colonel.. COL Byrne was the commander of the 320th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division durig WWII. He was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his actions on 10 November, 1944 when he exposed himself to heavy small arms and artillery fire in order to personally urge his men forward. This inspirational leadership proved to be the difference on the battlefield that day, as the 320th Regiment was successful in it's objectives.
Silver Star Citation: Headquarters, 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 53 (November 23, 1944) The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Bernard Abert Byrne (ASN: 0-12404), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 320th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of **** and ****, France, on 10 November 1944. On that day Colonel Byrne visited front line elements of his regiment and exposed himself to heavy enemy small arms and artillery fire in order to urge his men forward in the clearance of *** Woods. Colonel Byrne’s command had been stopped by the enemy who had counterattacked with tanks and infantry. He exhibited courage and coolness under fire, moving among his left battalion in order to personally urge them forward. By inspirational leadership, Colonel Byrne’s regiment captured **** Farm and pushed forward to clear the **** Woods. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Byrne, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.
Source: Military Hall of Honor