Michael J. Smerillo

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Michael J. Smerillo, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company H, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 15 September 1944, in the vicinity of Besancon, France. During action against enemy forces Sergeant Smerillo volunteered to place his machine gun in the open in order to draw enemy fire, thus exposing their positions. Sergeant Smerillo’s intrepid actions, 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 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.