Warren E. Cobbett

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Warren E. Cobbett, Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company D, 502d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 January 1945, in Belgium. On that date, positions of Company D, 502nd Parachute Infantry near Longchamps, Belgium, were assaulted by a strong force of German tanks supported by artillery. Although heavy casualties were suffered the men held their positions on a bald, snow-covered slope, and it was on that completely exposed terrain that Technician fifth Grade Cobbett fearlessly braved enemy fire to evacuate and give aid to the wounded. He obtained a quarter-ton truck and although it was not marked with the medical insignia he boldly drove it among the enemy tanks in order to reach overrun positions. By his absolute fearlessness Technician Fifth Grade Cobbett saved many lives and inspired his comrades to hold fast and deny infantry support to the enemy tanks. His 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 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.