Edward W. Hauschildt

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Edward W. Hauschildt (32003390), First Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 21 November 1944, in Germany. First Sergeant Hauschildt voluntarily crossed a 100-yard area swept by hostile shell fire and assumed command of a leaderless platoon. He reorganized his men, designated targets and established defensive positions. When enemy artillery fire was intensified and heavy casualties were inflicted upon the entire company, he re-crossed the exposed area to guide litter bearers forward. Under his direction more than 20 wounded men were evacuated. When the last officer was severely wounded by shell fire, he immediately assumed command of the entire company and successfully maintained its defensive positions throughout the night. First Sergeant Hauschildt’s 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 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.