John A. Whitehill

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John A. Whitehill, Second Lieutenant (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 37th Tank Battalion, 4th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 24 December 1944, near Bastogne, Belgium, where he had three tanks knocked out from under him. On 26 December Second Lieutenant Whitehill personally led an assault against the enemy, leading his men on foot after his tank was hit. Inspired by Lieutenant Whitehill’s fearless leadership, his men drove ahead and captured an entire battalion of enemy paratroopers. Second Lieutenant Whitehill’s gallant leadership, 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 4th Armored Division, and the United States Army.