Harold A. Slager

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Harold A. Slager (0-360364), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 43d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 July 1943, in the South Pacific. On that date, Captain Slager was ordered to coordinate the employment of tanks with an Infantry Battalion, attacking a strong enemy position. Having initiated the movement, he might have sought cover, but instead he crept forward to an advantageous position where he might better supervise the operation, fully aware that he was in extreme danger. While observing the progress of the attack to insure its success, he was killed by machine gun fire. Captain Slager made this sacrifice endeavoring to insure the most effective employment of tanks with a minimum of loss. 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, the 43d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.