Vincent S. Rohay

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Vincent S. Rohay (37395054), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 413th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 23 February 1945, near Duren, Germany. During a difficult attack operation across a flooded river, Sergeant Rohay single-handedly knocked out three enemy machine gun nests, which included a pill-box and three groups of entrenched enemy riflemen. Skillfully using his automatic rifle and hand grenades, he engaged in several hand-to-hand struggles, killing at least fifteen and taking fourteen prisoners. Staff Sergeant Rohay’s fearless 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 104th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.