World War II - Distinguished Service Cross - Army
Listed here are nearly 4,000 US Army recipients who received the Distinguished Service Cross and their citations, alphabetically by last name.
* Indicates Killed in Action (KIA), Missing in Action (MIA), Prisoner of War (POW), or Died Non-Battle (DNB)
*YAMANAGA, THOMAS ISAMU (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas Isamu Yamanaga (30102445), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate), attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 21 October 1943, in the vicinity of Alife, Italy. While attacking enemy positions, the company in which Private First Class Yamanaga was a gunner was pinned down by heavy enemy machine gun fire from the front. On his own initiative, Private First Class Yamanaga worked his way forward in full view of the enemy, to a position where he could engage the enemy gun with his automatic rifle. He immediately delivered such effective fire that the enemy gun was silenced, whereupon his company, no longer pinned down, successfully continued the attack. Private First Class Yamanaga was mortally wounded in rendering this outstanding service to his fellow soldiers. His initiative and courage in the face of danger were an inspiration to all who witnessed his bold deed and exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States, reflecting great credit upon himself, the 34th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 37 (March 9, 1944)
Born: February 17, 1914 at Honolulu, Hawaii
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
*YAMASHIRO, GORDON KENSHI (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gordon Kenshi Yamashiro (30105540), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 October 1944 near Biffontaine, France. Sergeant Yamashiro's company was advancing against dominating enemy positions when it was suddenly pinned down by the crossfire of two machine guns supported by riflemen and grenadiers. Immediately sizing up the dangerous situation, he deployed his squad to cover his movements and advanced alone to espy the enemy positions. After determining the probable source of the enemy fire he advanced 100 yards, killed a sniper who fired at him and missed, then neutralized with BAR fire one of the gun positions by killing three of its crew members. Continuing his audacious movements under fire from the second gun position, he killed the two gunners, thus neutralizing the emplacement. While engaged in laying down a protective screen of fire for his company's subsequent advance Sergeant Yamashiro was fatally shot by an enemy sniper. Staff Sergeant Yamashiro's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Sixth Army Group, General Orders No. 18 (March 24, 1945)
Born: October 26, 1921 at Kapaa, Kauai, Hawaii
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), Purple Heart
*YAMBERT, OLIVER L. (MIA-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Oliver L. Yambert (6931736), Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 9 February 1945. Technician Fourth Grade Yambert's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 50 (1945)
Home Town: Lane County, Oregon
*YANKE, OTTO H. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Otto H. Yanke (0-1081588), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 24 January 1945. Second Lieutenant Yanke'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 126 (1945)
Home Town: Ohio
YASUTAKE, ROBERT HIROSHI
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert Hiroshi Yasutake (30105956), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate), attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 2 June 1944, near Lanuvio. Private First Class Yasutake served as automatic rifleman for his squad during an attack. When his squad and the unit to his right became pinned down by heavy fire, he crawled to a position from which he opened fire and neutralized a hostile machine gun nest. Sensing an enemy machine gun fire coming from a deep gully, Private First Class Yasutake moved to the edge of the ravine, located the enemy position, and engaged the hostile crew with his automatic rifle and grenades, wounding seven Germans. As the fighting continued, his platoon encountered a series of enemy dugouts. Private First Class Yasutake, taking a position in one of the captured dugouts, engaged an enemy dugout fifteen yards from his own. The enemy threw hand grenades at him and attempted to infiltrate his position. Aware of the danger of being surrounded, he remained on the alert and killed a German who attempted to crawl toward him through a grape vineyard. Later, he spotted three Germans advancing in an attempt to isolate him from his platoon. When the Germans were within twenty yards of his dugout, he opened fire with his automatic rifle, killing them. Private First Class Yasutake's heroic and determined stand made it possible for his platoon to come abreast of him and continue the attack. 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 34th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 133 (August 8, 1944)
Born: April 4, 1920 at Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
Home Town: Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
YEAGER, PEARSON B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Pearson B. Yeager, First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces during World War II. First Lieutenant Yeager'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
*YESTRAMSKI, CHARLES J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Charles J. Yestramski (31007734), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 104th Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 November 1944. Staff Sergeant Yestramski's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 26th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 230 (August 26, 1945)
Home Town: Franklin County, Massachusetts
*YOCHUM, ELMER DEAN (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Elmer Dean Yochum (37006693), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a member of Company A, 803d Engineer Battalion (Aviation), in action against enemy forces on 26 January 1942, at Bataan, Philippine Islands. While his unit was advancing against a strongly held enemy position, Private First Class Yochum charged defense against active hostile enemy snipers to the extreme flank of his platoon. During the attack enemy snipers opened fire from vantage points in trees located to the rear of the line causing casualties in his immediate vicinity. While being unable to gain sufficient elevation on his machine gun to return effective fire, this intrepid soldier picked up this hot gun, cradled it in his arms, and despite the hazards of intense enemy machine gun fire and rifle fire, sprayed the trees to the rear while holding this heavy weapon. His heroic action silenced many of the hostile snipers and allowed the advance of his organization. Private First Class Yochum was killed by a enemy bullet while advancing in the attack which his courageous efforts had facilitated. First Class Yochum's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Allied Force Headquarters in the Philippines, General Orders No. 20 (1942)
Home Town: Elk County, Kansas
*YOGI, MATSUICHI (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Matsuichi Yogi (30104464), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 27 October 1944 to 29 October 1944, in the Vosges Mountains, France. Private First Class Yogi, during an enemy counterattack, daringly exposed himself and with his bazooka knocked out a German Mark IV tank. Disregarding enemy sniper fire, he eliminated one of two German bazookas with his own weapon and knocked out the other one with accurate rifle fire. On the second day, he scored a near hit on an enemy machine gun post which enabled his platoon to overrun the position. Private First Class Yogi's fighting spirit and intrepid gallantry above and beyond the call of duty, add living glory to the highest traditions of the Armed Forces. His personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 45 (March 25, 1945)
Born: October 6, 1922 at Waimea, Oahu, Hawaii
Home Town: Waipahu, Hawaii
YOKOTA, YUKIO
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Yukio Yokota (30100987), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a member of Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate), attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 2 June 1944, near La Torretto, Italy. Staff Sergeant Yokota's squad acted as point for the leading platoon in a daylight attack. Contacting an enemy machine gun nest, Staff Sergeant Yokota and two companions crawled two hundred yards through a wheat field toward the hostile weapon. Reaching a position ten yards from the machine gun, each man threw fragmentation grenades, killing three Germans. Another hostile position, containing two machine guns, opened fire on Staff Sergeant Yokota and his companions. Under intense fire he and his comrades crawled toward the second position. Nearing the enemy strongpoint, Staff Sergeant Yokota and his comrades opened fire with their rifles and threw hand grenades to kill two, wound one, and capture four Germans. Later in the day, when his platoon had reached its objective, an enemy machine gun opened fire on the units on the left flank. Again, Staff Sergeant Yokota and his two companions crawled toward the enemy, making their way through a vineyard to a point within ten feet of the Germans. Pinning the nest with rifle fire while one member of the squad tossed hand grenades, they boldly charged the position with fixed bayonets. Staff Sergeant Yokota and his fellow soldiers were successful in capturing eight Germans armed with two machine guns, three machine pistols and three rifles. In a period of approximately three hours, he and his companions neutralized five machine guns, five machine pistols, and killed or captured seventeen Germans. Staff Sergeant Yokota'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 34th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 133 (August 8, 1944)
Born: June 28, 1917 at Honolulu, Hawaii
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
YORK, ROBERT H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Robert H. York, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 23 to 25 March 1943. Lieutenant Colonel York's inspiring leadership, 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Army-North African Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 50 (1943)
YOUNG, ADLAI C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Adlai C. Young, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 24 December 1941, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Colonel Young'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 11 (1942)
YOUNG, DAVID E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to David E. Young, Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 2 December 1944. Technician Fifth Grade Young'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 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 53 (1945)
YOUNG, FRANK H., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Frank H. Young, Jr., Third Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces during World War II. Third Lieutenant Young'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 2 (1943)
*YOUNG, ROBERT S. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Robert S. Young (0-1312101), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 255th Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 14 April 1945, near Waldenburg, Germany. When his unit was held up by fire from the strategically located enemy, Captain Young advanced on a machine gun position under covering fire from his scouts and was wounded by a sniper. Undeterred, he continued throwing grenades, and eliminated three gunners. He then assaulted a second emplacement which he neutralized, in spite of raking fire. There at the third nest, he crawled into a ditch within 15 yards of the spot from which he threw the final grenade to complete removal of the enemy threat. Captain Young's act of supreme courage opened the way to attainment of the battalion objective and is representative of the finest in heroic achievement. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-European Theater, General Orders No. 242 (1945)
Home Town: Chaves County, New Mexico
*YOUNG, TRACY W. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Tracy W. Young (0-527888), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 306th Infantry Regiment, 77th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 December 1944, at Leyte, Philippine Islands. Second Lieutenant Young's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 77th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 382 (1945)
Home Town: Ponca City, Oklahoma
YOUNG, WALTER A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Walter A. Young, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 101st Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 1 December 1944. Technical Sergeant Young'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 26th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 99 (1945)
YOUNT, EMORY N.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Emory N. Yount, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 399th Infantry Regiment, 100th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 18 April 1945, in the vicinity of Beilstein, Germany. Sergeant Yount'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 100th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 512 (1945)
YUHAS, WILLIAM L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William L. Yuhas, Corporal, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 18 September 1943. Corporal Yuhas' 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 482 (1943)
YUHASZ, THEODORE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Theodore Yuhasz, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in September 1943, in Italy. Private First Class Yuhasz'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 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 6 (1944)
Home Town: Nanticoke, Pennsylvania
ZABALA, MANUEL R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Manuel R. Zabala, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 405th Infantry Regiment, 102d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 24 February 1945, near Hottorf, Germany. When an Allied tank was hit by enemy forces and went up in flames with five men inside, Private First Class Zabala sprinted through enemy fire to pull the five soldiers to safety. Shortly afterwards, a second tank was disabled. Again, Private First Class Zabala ignored the danger of enemy fire to pull two more men to safety. One of these had suffered wounds that shattered his leg, and Private First Class Zabala performed a battlefield amputation using only his trench knife and a scalpel. Private First Class Zabala'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 102d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 218 (1945)
Home Town: Monebello, California
ZABSKI, THOMAS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas Zabski, First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 5 January 1944. First Lieutenant Zabski'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 102 (1944)
ZAGHA, MARCO
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Marco Zagha, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 398th Infantry Regiment, 100th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 9 January 1945, in the vicinity of Rimling, France. Private First Class Zagha'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 100th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 318 (July 16, 1945)
ZAHN, DONALD E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald E. Zahn, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company H, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. Sergeant Zahn'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 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 81 (1944)
Home Town: St. Louis Park, Minnesota
*ZALEWSKI, FRANK C. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Frank C. Zalewski (32797017), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 27 August 1944, in France. At 0800 hours on 27 August 1944, near Begude, France, Private First Class Zalewski voluntarily ran and crawled three hundred and forth yards through intense machine gun fire and mortar concentrations. Despite shells which exploded ten yards away, he took his bazooka to an exposed position and knocked out an enemy half-track. With only one rocket left, he remained at his post and destroyed at forty yards range an enemy tank which charged him with both machine guns blazing. Setting both half-track and tank afire and killing eight Germans, Private First class Zalewski saved an infantry platoon from destruction. He was killed in a subsequent action. Private First Class Zalewski's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 181 (1945)
Home Town: Suffolk County, New York
Personal Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Bronze Star, 2@ Purple Hearts
ZALUSKY, LOUIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Louis Zalusky, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against enemy forces on 12 March 1945. Sergeant Zalusky'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 1st Cavalry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 89 (1945)
ZANTOW, FORREST
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Forrest Zantow (0-474270), First Lieutenant (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer of the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. In the initial landings on the coast of France, Captain Zantow landed early in the assault as part of the Regimental Medical Detachment. Undaunted by the heavy and intense enemy fire, Captain Zantow attended the wounded on the beach. With complete disregard for his own safety, he moved about the beach rendering aid to the numerous casualties caused by the enemy fire. By his personal bravery under such hazardous conditions, he was instrumental in the saving of many lives. First Lieutenant Zantow'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 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944)
ZARING, PAUL A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Paul A. Zaring, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 302d Infantry Regiment, 94th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 March 1945. Private First Class Zaring'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 94th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 157 (1945)
ZARNFALLER, WILLIAM E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William E. Zarnfaller, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 March 1945. Sergeant Zarnfaller'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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 163 (1945)
ZEHNER, ELERY M.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Elery M. Zehner, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 399th Infantry Regiment, 100th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 4 November 1944, in the vicinity of St. Remy, France. Lieutenant Colonel Zehner'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 100th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 544 (1945)
ZEHNER, ELERY M.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Elery M. Zehner, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 399th Infantry Regiment, 100th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 9 January 1945, in the vicinity of Signalberg, France. Lieutenant Colonel Zehner'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 100th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 34 (January 30, 1946)
Personal Awards: 2@ Distinguished Service Crosses (WWII)
ZEHNER, LOYD G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Loyd G. Zehner, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 29 September 1944. Private First Class Zehner'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 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 6 (1945)
ZEIGLER, HARVEY J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Harvey J. Zeigler (0-1286224), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving Company H, 3d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, near Ste. Mere Eglise, France. An American truck loaded with ammunition, accidentally hit an American roadblock and minefield. The accident dislocated the minefield and damaged the roadblock. The enemy was maintaining rifle and artillery fire on the truck, which caught fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Zeigler left his position of cover and personally re-laid the minefield and reconstructed the roadblock under intense enemy fire. A short while after this action the ammunition truck exploded. The personal bravery and valor exhibited by First Lieutenant Zeigler exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 31 (July 1, 1944)
Home Town: Bowling Green, Ohio
*ZELINSKY, JOHN (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to John Zelinsky (31034275), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in July 1943. Private Zelinsky's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 24 (1943)
Home Town: Suffolk County, Massachusetts
*ZIEBARTH, STANLEY E. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Stanley E. Ziebarth (20749241), Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 473d Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 9 April 1945, in Italy. Technician Fourth Grade Ziebarth's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 73 (1945)
Home Town: Le Sueur, Minnesota
ZIEGELE, PAUL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Paul Ziegele, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 163d Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 15 January 1943, during the Papuan Campaign, near Sanananda, New Guinea. When his company attacked an enemy position, Staff Sergeant Ziegele and another soldier, on the extreme flank of the attack were confronted by a strong enemy pill-box containing a 50-caliber machine gun. Directing his companion to a position from which he could fire into the aperture of the pill-box, Staff Sergeant Ziegele moved alone to outflank the position. Reaching the vicinity of the pill-box without drawing enemy fire, he fired through the slot at four enemy soldiers inside, killing one with the last shell in his rifle. Lacking time to reload, he gripped the barrel of the enemy machine gun and attempted to pull it through the aperture, in spite of enemy fire. When this failed he took cover against the side of the pill-box, reloaded and killed two more of the enemy as they emerged, holding his place along until fire from other localities forced him to withdraw to rejoin his unit. Staff Sergeant Ziegele's daring acts were an inspiration to men of his company. His inspiring leadership, 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 41st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 41 (1943)
Home Town: Jordan, Montana
ZIELSKE, WILLIAM F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William F. Zielske, First Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces from 17 July 1944 to 9 September 1944. First Sergeant Zielske'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 31 (1945)
ZIMMER, DONALD C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald C. Zimmer, First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 27 January 1945 and on 11 February 1945. First Lieutenant Zimmer'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 53 (1945)
ZIMMER, RALPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ralph Zimmer, First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 7 and 8 November 1944. First Lieutenant Zimmer'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Sixth Army Group, General Orders No. 13 (1944)
ZIMMERER, THOMAS J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas J. Zimmerer, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 60th Armored Infantry Battalion, in action against enemy forces from 16 to 20 December 1944. Private First Class Zimmerer'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 68 (1945)
ZIMMERMAN, WAYNE C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Wayne C. Zimmerman (0-12346), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces during the period from 16 May through 2 June 1943, at Attu Island, Territory of Alaska. Colonel Zimmerman assumed command of an Infantry Regiment when the former commanding officer was killed in action. His immediate presence and aggressive spirit were soon felt throughout the battalions of his command. With utter disregard of his own personal safety, he personally led leading elements through a difficult pass that had stopped this regiment for several days. This act of personal bravery and leadership restored confidence and aggressiveness to his command, which had been badly shaken by battle casualties and exposure to extreme weather. He continued to direct his troops from front line positions under enemy artillery, machine gun, and small arms fire. Although assistants were wounded near him, he remained in his extreme forward position, directing continuous attacks until the hostile forces were destroyed. His heroic attitude and continued presence with his front line fighting elements maintained an uplift in the fighting spirit of his troops in spite of the many days of fighting, severe weather, mountainous terrain, and great distances. He, himself, suffered from frostbite and swollen feet, the fact of which he kept from his men. His calmness and cool thinking under fire, his leadership and his tireless devotion o duty, with little, if any rest were inspiring to all. His continuous attacks left the enemy no respite or escape and appreciably shortened hostilities, thereby saving many American lives. Lieutenant Colonel Zimmerman's gallant leadership, 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 7th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Troops, APO 726 (Attu Landing Force), General Orders No. 31 (1943)
Home Town: Minnesota
ZINGALE, LEO T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Leo T. Zingale, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 28th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 July 1944. Private First Class Zingale'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 8th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 62 (1944)
ZINSER, ROY F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Roy F. Zinser, Major (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces pm 16 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign, near Buna, New Guinea. Lieutenant Colonel Zinser, Executive Officer of his battalion, which had suffered heavy casualties during a month of combat, voluntarily led one flank of an attack on the heavily defended enemy position at Coconut Grove, Girua Gardens. The situation in this section was critical, and the enemy's position was a most difficult one to storm. In the face of withering small arms and mortar fire, he led his troops in an assault against determined opposition until he was seriously wounded. Lieutenant Colonel Zinser's courageous leadership in this attack inspired his troops to a magnificent effort. 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 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 2 (1944)
Home Town: Monroe, Wisconsin
*ZUK, ANTHONY (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Anthony Zuk (32002366), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 30 June 1944. Staff Sergeant Zuk's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, 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.
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-European Theater, General Orders No. 248 (1945)
Home Town: New York, New York
ZUPANCIC, JOSEPH G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Joseph G. Zupancic, Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces in May 1943. Technician Fifth Grade Zupancic'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 84 (1943)
ZWECK, CHARLES HENRY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Charles Henry Zweck, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company M, 7th Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 3 May 1945, near Siegendorf, Germany. From an exposed position with his machine gun, Private First Class Zweck single-handedly engaged the enemy, killing or wounding a seven-man crew of a self-propelled gun. He blew up a gasoline truck, neutralized two enemy machine gun positions, and drove the enemy from the firing line, killing twelve and wounding twenty, and causing the capture of 114 enemy troops. Private First Class Zweck'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 626 (1945)
Home Town: Freeport, New York
ZWEIFEL, DONALD E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald E. Zweifel, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 September 1944. Staff Sergeant Zweifel'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 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 100 (May 11, 1945)
ZWINGMAN, OTTO K. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Otto K. Zwingman (32815665), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 2d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. After landing by parachute before dawn on D-Day and joining a composite group which proceeded to carry out a battalion mission, Private Zwingman and two comrades served as an outpost in a building on the edge of Guetteville. When a battalion of German infantry, reinforced by tanks, approached from the west and placed machine guns and mortars in position, those three valiant men immediately opened fire on the enemy. Ordered to leave the post, they determined to hold out until the 30 men in the town had withdrawn. Private Zwingman assisted in holding the hostile force at bay for two hours, killing 15 Germans and wounding many others. His voluntary and courageous action delayed the enemy sufficiently to permit the main body of parachute troops to establish defensive positions to the east from which they were able to deny overwhelming German forces the opportunity of crossing the Merderet River. Private Zwingman is missing as a result of this action. His superb heroism and unselfish devotion to duty exemplifies the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 61 (1944)
Home Town: Bronx, New York
