John H. Mcroberts

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John H. McRoberts, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 22 June 1944, at Biak Island, Dutch New Guinea. After leading his squad to within twenty-five yards of two heavily constructed enemy pill boxes, Staff Sergeant McRoberts encountered such heavy fire that the forward movement of his men was stopped. On his own initiative and alone he charged the enemy position and firing rapidly, killed two enemy soldiers and wounded a third. Although seriously wounded, he then directed his squad in reducing the enemy fortification, and enabled his platoon to secure the contested area. The extraordinary courage displayed by Staff Sergeant McRoberts in this action contributed materially to our success in defeating the enemy. His 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 41st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.