Gottlieb Ruby

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Gottlieb Ruby (0-1291704), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 80th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 4 September 1944, in France. During the attack on Dommar tin Les Toul, south of Toul, France, Lieutenant Ruby’s platoon was the right attacking platoon of the assault company and was making the main effort within the company sector. The enemy occupied many dig-in well camouflaged positions on commanding ground surrounded by excellent fields of fire and was supported by mortars and artillery for which they had excellent observation. Due to the excellent observation and fields of fire, the terrain definitely favored the defender. Shortly after crossing the Moselle River, the platoon was subjected to intense machine-gun cross-fire and the platoon leader Lieutenant Ruby, was wounded in the left shoulder. Disregarding his wounds, refusing medical attention and displaying superb leadership, cool courage and total disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Ruby, advancing in the face of machine-gun and rifle fire, continued until his mission was accomplished. His action so inspired his men that they were enabled to overrun the enemy position and destroy it. Lieutenant Ruby remained in action two hours after he was wounded and personally captured three Germans and killed an unknown number of others. First Lieutenant Ruby’s resourcefulness, 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 80th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.