Herbert Rose, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Herbert Rose, Jr. (0-1301543), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion, in action against the enemy on 23 December 1944, near *****, Belgium. On that date, at 1600, Company C completed its mission of securing a road junction, in the face of enemy opposition. While consolidating the position for defense, heavy artillery, mortar, and tank fire was placed upon the area by the enemy. At the same time a strong counterattack of about battalion strength, supported by five Tiger Tanks, was launched. During the initial phase of this enemy counterattack, Lieutenant Rose left the house in which he had established his Command Post, and proceeded, in full view of the enemy, along the entire front, to encourage and advise his men. The counterattack was stopped and tied down. Shortly after returning to his Command Post, the enemy tanks went into action, destroying four friendly tanks which had been supporting Company C. One of the enemy tanks, after the breakthrough, proceeded to within a short distance of the Company Command Post and fired nine rounds into the house. Lieutenant Rose was severely wounded, as were several other members of the Command Post personnel. Despite the seriousness of his wounds, Lieutenant Rose refused to be evacuated for medical attention until after he had personally conducted the relieving officer on a tour of the company positions and outlined the situation to him. Lieutenant Rose’s courageous action reflects much credit on himself and his unit.