Charles Shay, D-Day Hero and Last Native American Medal Recipient, Dies at 101

Charles Shay, a Penobscot tribal member who heroically saved lives as a teenage U.S. Army medic on D-Day, has died at age 101. On June 6, 1944, the 19-year-old soldier waded onto Omaha Beach in France. Under intense enemy fire, he repeatedly plunged into the sea to rescue wounded comrades. He carried them to the relative safety of the shore and provided critical medical aid. For his "gallantry in action," the U.S. Army later awarded Shay the Silver Star. This is the military's third-highest decoration for valor in combat. Shay was the last known Native American recipient of France's highest award, the Legion of Honour. He received it for his bravery on D-Day. French and American officials regularly honored him at anniversary ceremonies in Normandy. His death marks the passing of a direct link to one of history's most significant military operations. Shay's legacy is one of extraordinary courage during the pivotal World War II invasion.