Wilbur C. Pyle

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Wilbur C. Pyle (18198599), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 14 November 1944, in France. On that date, Private First Class Pyle was advancing with his company against the enemy near Pevange, France. When a series of defensive enemy foxholes were encountered, Private First Class Pyle unhesitatingly advanced upon them. His helmet was knocked off by an enemy bullet as he started forward but he went on without it, ignoring the heavy frontal and flanking fire laid down by the enemy. He captured three of the enemy in the first foxhole and sent them to the rear. He coolly advanced upon a second and third foxhole, throwing grenades, and capturing two more prisoners. Still advancing, he threw grenades into a fourth foxhole, killing one of the entrenched enemy and capturing another. Private First Class Pyle’s courageous determination to engage the enemy, and his conspicuous heroism and inspiring devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.