James S. Rodwell

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James S. Rodwell, Brigadier General, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 and 9 March 1945, in the vicinity of Adenau and Rifferscheid, Germany. A task force under the leadership of General Rodwell initiated an advance, crossing a river which had thwarted similar previous attempts, and penetrated swiftly and deeply into enemy territory. The force, animated by his vigorous leadership, eliminated each enemy point of resistance and deftly surmounted each obstacle which the retreating Germans had left in their wake. He personally and on foot led his command group through an enemy occupied town at night while devoid of any support or assistance from combat troops. Germany. Brigadier General Rodwell’s aggressive 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 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.