Donald C. Rogers

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Donald C. Rogers (ER21262205), Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Platoon Sergeant in an Infantry Company of the 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Sergeant First Class Rogers distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, on 31 October 1952. On that date, Sergeant Rogers voluntarily joined the lead element of an allied counter-attack force which was committed to assaulting and securing a strategic position overrun earlier by the enemy. Sergeant Rogers urged the squad, comprised mostly of replacements inexperienced in battle, forward until the squad leader was seriously wounded. Immediately assuming command of the squad, Sergeant Rogers reorganized the men and continued the advance until they were pinned down and dispersed by accurate and heavy small-arms fire from a hostile bunker in close proximity their position. Disregarding all thoughts of personal safety, Sergeant Rogers moved from his covered position while the enemy rolled grenades down on him and, although seriously wounded, attacked the bunker and killed its occupants. After regrouping the men, Sergeant Rogers led them forward but the squad was halted a second time by enemy fire from another bunker further up the slope. Displaying the same courageous leadership, Sergeant Rogers rose to charge the enemy position but was mortally wounded while advancing. Although dying, Sergeant Rogers continued to fire his carbine and offer words of encouragement, inspiring his men to press forward.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army, Korea: General Orders No. 617 (June 30, 1953)