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6/30/2020
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Rep. Marszalkowski introduces resolution honoring World War II Medal of Honor recipient
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 STATE HOUSE – Rep. Alex D. Marszalkowski (D-Dist. 52, Cumberland) introduced a House resolution (2020-H 8027) honoring United States Army First Lieutenant Robert T. Waugh, a Rhode Island native and the recipient of the Medal of Honor for his service during World War II.
“First Lieutenant Waugh was born in Cumberland and he received our nation’s highest military honor due to his heroic and incredible actions during World War II. It is only fitting that his home state recognize his courageous actions that resulted in a great turning point for the Allies during the war. First Lieutenant Waugh and all of Rhode Island’s military service members deserve all of our thanks and gratitude for their dedication and sacrifices in order to keep us safe and free,” said Representative Marszalkowski.
At a battle at the Gustav Line, a heavily fortified German defensive line in Italy that was defended by fifteen German Divisions, First Lieutenant Waugh destroyed six bunkers, two pillboxes, and was personally responsible for numerous enemy fatalities and the capture of 25 others. He was credited for inspiring his fellow soldiers to continue fighting on under dire conditions, and played a vital role in the ultimate breaking of the Gustav Line.
For his heroic service to our nation in Italy during World War II, First Lieutenant Waugh received the Purple Heart and the Medal of Honor “For his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy.”
Tragically, on May 19, 1944, Second Lieutenant Robert T. Waugh perished in service to our nation when he was hit by shrapnel. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant and is buried in Italy. On the 15th Anniversary of the Gustav Line battles and the creation of this cemetery, President Bill Clinton visited First Lieutenant Robert Waugh’s gravesite.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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