Frank L. Sirovica

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Frank L. Sirovica (32044934), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 3d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 January 1945, in Belgium. When his company’s advance was halted by a devastating barrage from enemy high-velocity guns, small arms, and machine guns, Staff Sergeant Sirovica led his platoon in a charge across open ground toward the gun positions. As a result of his courageous action, three machine guns and three 88-mm. guns were neutralized. After reorganizing, the company again advanced, only to encounter direct fire from a German artillery weapon. Ignoring the intense fire, Staff Sergeant Sirovica moved forward alone toward the hostile gun position, killed two members of the crew and forced the remainder to surrender. Still advancing aggressively, he personally attacked four cabins, killing several Germans and capturing many others. Staff Sergeant Sirovica’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 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.