Shigeo Joseph Takata

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Shigeo Joseph Takata (30102426), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate), attached to the 34th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on the morning of 9 September 1943, west of Monte Milleto, Italy. Sergeant Takata personally led his squad in a flanking movement, forcing the withdrawal of enemy machine gunners and materially assisting in the attainment of the Battalion objective. Taking position in front of his men, he led them through intense artillery, mortar and machine gun fire to carry out his mission. He continuously and deliberately disregarded his own welfare in making personal reconnaissance to determine enemy gun positions. While so exposing himself, he was struck by an artillery shell and mortally wounded. In spite of his wounds he attempted to communicate with his platoon leader to inform him what he had learned of the enemy positions. Sergeant Takata’s 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 34th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.