Medal of Honor: George W. G. Boyce Jr. – World War II, July 23, 1944

Name: George W. G. Boyce Jr.

Rank and Organization: Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army
Conflict: World War II
Unit: 112th Cavalry Regimental Combat Team
Date of Action: July 23, 1944
Location: Near Afua, New Guinea

Summary of Action:
In the unforgiving jungles near Afua, New Guinea, the 112th Cavalry Regimental Combat Team faced fierce resistance from entrenched Japanese forces. On July 23, 1944, 2nd Lt. George W. G. Boyce Jr. led his platoon into the chaos of the battlefield. His unit had been tasked with relieving another American force under siege by superior enemy numbers.

As they advanced, Boyce’s platoon was met with a storm of rifle, machine gun, and mortar fire that stalled their movement. Seeking an alternate path, Boyce spotted a shallow depression that could provide concealment. With determination and calm under fire, he led his men through it in an effort to close with the enemy.

Suddenly, a volley of Japanese hand grenades rained down on the formation—one of them landing between Boyce and his trailing squad. In that split second, he made a decision that defined his legacy. Without hesitation, 2nd Lt. Boyce threw himself onto the grenade, using his own body to absorb the blast and save the lives of his men.

He died instantly, but his act of selfless heroism ensured the survival of those who followed him. George Boyce’s final moment was not one of fear or hesitation—it was one of resolve, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to his soldiers. He gave his life so others could live, and in doing so, upheld the highest ideals of American leadership and courage in war.

Medal of Honor Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty near Afua, New Guinea, on 23 July 1944. 2d Lt. Boyce’s troop, having been ordered to the relief of another unit surrounded by superior enemy forces, moved out, and upon gaining contact with the enemy, the two leading platoons deployed and built up a firing line. 2d Lt. Boyce was ordered to attack with his platoon and make the main effort on the right of the troop. He launched his attack but after a short advance encountered such intense rifle, machinegun, and mortar fire that the forward movement of his platoon was temporarily halted. A shallow depression offered a route of advance and he worked his squad up this avenue of approach in order to close with the enemy. He was promptly met by a volley of hand grenades, one falling between himself and the men immediately following. Realizing at once that the explosion would kill or wound several of his men, he promptly threw himself upon the grenade and smothered the blast with his own body. By thus deliberately sacrificing his life to save those of his men, this officer exemplified the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.