Dennis Leon Rouska

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Dennis Leon Rouska (533-52-5221), Sergeant [then Specialist Fourth Class], U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 46th Regiment, 196th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. Sergeant Rouska distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 December 1970 while serving as a machine gunner in a rifle platoon during the night of a mortar attack. As the lethal mortar rounds began falling, Sergeant Rouska unhesitatingly left his secure position and maneuvered through the exploding enemy rounds to aid his wounded comrades. Although wounded by fragmentation, he remained exposed to the fusillade of rounds impacting around him. Attempting to administer first aid, Sergeant Rouska heard an incoming mortar round, and, realizing the full implication of his sacrifice, he threw himself upon his comrade, shielding him from the exploding mortar. Through his indomitable courage, disregard for his safety and concern for his fellow soldier, he averted the loss of a life. Sergeant Rouska’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 32 (August 3, 1972)