Edward J. Rutkowski

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward J. Rutkowski (0-2010955), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945 and 9 April 1945. When his platoon leader was killed during an advance, Lieutenant Rutkowski quickly reorganized the platoon. He moved the mortar and machine gun squads into position under intense enemy fire. Then taking five men he proceeded by a covered route into the enemy lines. He forced the surrender of over thirty enemy. Continuing with the same men he took forty prisoners at a nearby enemy strongpoint. Later he led his platoon, dismounted, into an enemy town, gaining a foothold that enabled the balance of the force to occupy it. His coolness, leadership and courage were an inspiration to all and reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.