John Erbes

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John Erbes (0-380930), Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer with the 67th Armored Regiment, 2d Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 November 1944, in Germany. On 17 November 1944 Captain Erbes voluntarily and with complete disregard to his own personal safety, braved enemy artillery, mortar and machine-gun fire to aid friendly casualties 600 yards behind enemy lines. Even though his Geneva Cross Flag was shot from his hand on the first trip, Captain Erbes courageously made a total of four trips into enemy lines evacuating twelve seriously wounded men, six of whom would have died if they had not been given immediate medical attention. Captain Erbes’ intrepid actions, 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 2d Armored Division, and the United States Army.