Carl J. Frantz

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Carl J. Frantz (37070261), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 137th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 July 1944, in the vicinity of Le Carillion, Normandy, France. Staff Sergeant Frantz was directing the limited withdrawal of his platoon under fire when two enemy machine-guns opened fire on his position. He was wounded in the stomach by the first burst of machine-gun fire, making it necessary for him to hold his intestines in with one hand. He seized a BAR and opened fire on the enemy positions, allowing his men to withdraw safely, and he was soon alone in an open field. Still holding his abdomen closed with one hand, he began crawling to safety when a sniper opened fire at him. Staff Sergeant Frantz located the sniper and killed him. He continued his crawl and reached a ditch where he lay until dark. He then walked two miles to the aid station. Disregarding his own safety and need for medical attention, Staff Sergeant Frantz saved his platoon from possible annihilation. Staff Sergeant Frantz’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 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.