Gerald E. Soper

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Gerald E. Soper (37550610), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 274th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 January 1945, at Wingen, France. During a daylight attack on the town, intense sniper fire and automatic weapons activity halted the advance of Private First Class Soper’s platoon. Disregarding the danger, he voluntarily crawled to a basement window from which the enemy was firing and hurled a grenade inside. Moving away from the window he was wounded. He then crawled back and tossed another grenade through the opening. He was firing his rifle into the basement when hit the second time and died shortly afterwards. Private First Class Soper’s gallant actions and ability enabled his platoon to resume the attack and aid in the capture of the town. 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 70th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.