Reuben Tucker graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1935. He retired in 1963 as a U.S. Army Major General also participating in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. He commanded the 504th PIR throughout World War 2 in Europe. He received several medals for gallantry during the war to include two Distinguished Service Crosses. Colonel Tucker was awarded one for his actions in Italy: Order: Headquarters, XVIII Airborne Corps, General Orders No. 8 (November 14, 1944) CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Reuben Henry Tucker (ASN: 0-19894), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 September 1943, about one-half mile northeast of Altavilla, Italy. Colonel Tucker observed that the enemy was digging in on Hill 424, Army objective of the 1st Battalion of his regiment, the advance of which had been delayed by terrain, organized a small group of twenty-three men, and with utter disregard for his own safety, Colonel Tucker led this small group through heavy enemy artillery fire, attacked and drove the enemy from Hill 424. In this action five of the men became casualties, but Colonel Tucker and the remaining eighteen men held Hill 424 against enemy counterattacks and against enemy forces that were retreating in front of the 1st Battalion, until the 1st Battalion was able to occupy and hold the hill. By his heroic actions, Colonel Tucker enabled the 1st Battalion to attain its important Army objective. His gallant leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.