James F. Clarke

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to James F. Clarke (0-1294267), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 14 June 1944, in Normandy, France. Second Lieutenant Clarke was commanding the advance rifle platoon of Company B, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment in an attack against the enemy situated on high ground north of Le Bonneville, France. The advance elements were held up by fire from an enemy machine gun, nested in an emplacement on the high ground to the front. Setting an example of courage and initiative, Lieutenant Clarke raced for the enemy gun. He wiped it out with grenades, and in the performance of this brave action, lost his life. His intrepidity set an example for others to follow. This courageous action was a determining factor in the successful accomplishment of the battalion mission. Second Lieutenant Clarke’s fearless leadership, 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 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.