William Katsoulakos

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William Katsoulakos (32726754), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 23 June 1944, at Flottemanville-Hague, France. During an assault on an enemy hill position, Private Katsoulakos continued to advance even though he had suffered a severe head wound. The remainder of his platoon had become disorganized by the deadly enemy fire, which resulted in the loss of their platoon leader. Under fierce enemy machine gun fire, Private Katsoulakos courageously maneuvered forward alone, stormed an enemy pillbox with grenades and bayonet and completely wiped out the pillbox, killing the four occupants. After this act Private Katsoulakos reorganized his platoon and directed the advance to their objective. Private Katsoulakos’ 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 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.