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AMEDD Distinguished Service Cross Recipients > AMEDD Distinguished Service Cross Recipients Of World War II

Interesting Notes:
CPT John J. Cotter, Tech 4 Stanley P. Appleby, PFC Alexander W. Barber, and PFC George H Bowen were all decorated for actions on 6 June 1944, D Day.

First Lieutenant Lester Dannenberg was a Medical Administrative Corps officer.

In addition to the Distinguished Service Cross, PFC Anthony P. Coll is also the recipient of the Silver Star.

* Denotes Posthumous Award


ADAMS, JOHN E. (MIA-KIA)
Major, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
2nd Surgical Group
Date of Action: 24 January 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John E. Adams, Major (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against a hostile force. Major Adams distinguished himself by intrepid actions on 24 January 1944 while serving with the 2d Surgical Group. His unquestionable valor in close combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 52 (1944)

ALDEN, CARLOS C., JR.
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
Med C, 509th Para Inf
Date of Action: 27 January 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Carlos C. Alden, Jr., Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces near Anzio, Italy on 27 January 1944. Captain Alden voluntarily attached himself to a company advancing across open terrain in a dangerous assault on two enemy-held houses. He exposed himself to machine gun fire to aid the wounded. Several days later he repeated his heroic acts in another similar assault. Prior to Anzio, he was the battalion surgeon for a parachute battalion making the first parachute mission on the invasion of Africa. In another parachute mission behind German lines, he was captured and then escaped. He also participated in the Battle of the Bulge and was again taken as prisoner and escaped.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 133 (August 8, 1944)

APPLEBY, STANLEY P.
Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army
16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 June 1944
Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Stanley P. Appleby (12004300), Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. Technician Fourth Grade Appleby disembarked from his craft some fifty yards from the beach under a hail of artillery shells and machine gun fire. A large number of casualties were sustained and, but for Technician Fourth Grade Appleby's prompt and courageous action, would have perished in the surf. With complete disregard for his own safety, he on numerous occasions waded into the surf to lead them ashore and immediately administered first aid. Despite the intense enemy fire, Technician Fourth Grade Appleby never slackened in his efforts to assist and render aid to the wounded on the beach. 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 31 (July 1, 1944)

ATWELL, DANIEL E.
Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army
4th Medical Battalion
Date of Action: 10 June 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Daniel E. Atwell, Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 4th Medical Battalion, in action against enemy forces on 10 June 1944. Technician Fourth Grade Atwell's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 67 (1944)

BALCH, RANDALL E.
Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment
Date of Action: 3 Aug 1943
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Randall E. Balch, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with a Medical Detachment, in action against enemy forces on 3 August 1943. Staff Sergeant Balch's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 69 (1944)

BARBER, ALEXANDER W.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Corps
Date of Action: 6 June 1944
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Alexander W. Barber (33575048), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Ranger Infantry Battalion, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. Private First Class Barber landed with his medical unit on the coast of France at a time when the beach was under heavy enemy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire. Numerous casualties had already been inflicted by this devastating fire. In spite of this heavy fire, Private First Class Barber constantly exposed himself to the direct fire of the enemy as he went along the beach administering aid to the wounded. On one occasion he took a horse and cart into the middle of an artillery barrage to bring out three men who had been wounded. Private First Class Barber's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 28 (June 20, 1944)
Home Town: Johnstown, Pennsylvania

*BAZE, ROY E. (KIA)
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
509th Parachute Infantry Regiment
Date of Action: 23 Aug 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Roy E. Baze (0-377640), Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer with the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 23 August 1944. Captain Baze'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Sixth Army Group, General Orders No. 12 (1944)
Home Town: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

*BOATRIGHT, BENNIE F.
Private, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 41st Armored Infantry
Date of Action: 22 August 1944
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Bennie F. Boatright (38111694), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 41st Armored Infantry Regiment, 2d Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 22 August 1944, in France. Private Boatright was attempting to reach two severely wounded comrades when withering enemy machine gun and small arms fire forced him to take cover. Disregarding a warning by fellow soldiers, he resumed his courageous advance until again fired upon by the enemy. In desperation, this gallant soldier removed his red cross arm band and, waving it before him, unhesitatingly plunged forward with great valor and determination. A burst of fire fatally wounded him before he reached his comrades. Private Boatright'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 2d Armored Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 10 (January 17, 1945)
Home Town: Travis County, Texas

BOWEN, GEORGE H.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 16th Infantry
Date of Action: 6 June 1944
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to George H. Bowen (35643671), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. As the men in the initial assault on the coast of France waded through the waist-deep water, a number were wounded and were in grave danger of drowning. Private First Class Bowen, disregarding his own safety, stopped in his efforts to reach the shore, waded through the mined and fire-swept water to go to a wounded man who was drowning and dragged the man to shore. He then proceeded to the fire-swept areas to administer to the numerous casualties. During the attack men were wounded in an assault on an enemy machine gun nest high on the slopes of a cliff. Private First Class Bowen, to reach these men, crossed an uncharted mine field and moved through vicious enemy fire to within fifteen yards of the enemy's machine gun nest to render first aid to the stricken men. Private First Class Bowen's 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 45 (August 9, 1944)
Home Town: Morehead, Kentucky

*BOZICKOVICH, ELI M. (KIA)
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 772nd Tank Destroyer Battalion
Date of Action: 18 Jan 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Eli M. Bozickovich (36361319), Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Medical Detachment, 772d Tank Destroyer Battalion, in action against enemy forces on 18 January 1945. Technician Fifth Grade Bozickovich'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 45 (1945)
Home Town: Cook County, Illinois

*BRADLEY, WILBORN O. (KIA)
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 142nd Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 15 Mar 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Wilborn O. Bradley (34634740), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 15 March 1945. Private First Class Bradley'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 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 334 (1945)
Home Town: Benton County, Mississippi

BRENNAN, JOHN J. (POW)
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 3rd Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment
Date of Action: 22-24 Jan 1942
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John J. Brennan, Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Medical Detachment, 3d Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces during the period 22 - 24 January 1942, at Abucay, Hacienda, Bataan, Philippine Islands. Captain Brennan maintained his battalion aid station in operation even though it was repeatedly under heavy artillery fire and dive bombing attacks. Even when shells fell in the immediate vicinity of two officers who had been bombarded by enemy 105s, he administered first aid to save a life. Captain Brennan's 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 and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 23 (1942)
Home Town: Sedonia, Arizona

BRINKMAN, EDWARD
Private, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment
Date of Action: March 1943
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Edward Brinkman, Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with a Medical Detachment, in action against enemy forces in March 1943. Private Brinkman's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 32 (1943)

BUTTERFIELD, RICHARD S.
Corporal, U.S. Army
1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 21 Jul 1944
Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Richard S. Butterfield (20721319), Corporal, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 21 July 1944 at St. Lo, Normandie, France. On 21 July 1944 the 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry was occupying the town of St. Lo, Normandie, France, with the Battalion Command Post located in a cemetery. The Medical Detachment, 1st Battalion, was situated in a mill at the north-east outskirts of town. At approximately 1400, while an ambulance was being loaded adjacent to the mill, several enemy howitzer shells hit the mill and the area around the ambulance. At that particular time, Corporal Butterfield, Medical Non-Commissioned Officer, was engaged in loading a shell concussion victim into the ambulance. He threw himself over the patient holding him down and protecting him with his own body. Corporal Butterfield's gallant action; his unselfish zeal in protecting a patient, above and beyond the call of duty, resulted in the patient receiving merely some shell fragment wounds, enabling his being evacuated in good condition. Corporal Butterfield, however, as a result of his action, had his right leg blown off and the left leg badly fractured. The splendid bravery Corporal Butterfield, his utter disregard for his own safety, merits the emblazoning of his name in the annals of the Medical Corps. 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 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 59 (1944)

*CANNON, NEWTON A. (KIA)
Captain, U.S. Army
Medical Corps
Date of Action: 23 Mar 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Newton A. Cannon (0-1696528), Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer, in action against enemy forces on 23 March 1945. Captain Cannon'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 42 (1945)
Home Town: Davidson County, Tennessee

CAPRI, SAM
Private, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 53rd Armored Infantry Battalion
Date of Action: 10 Jan 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sam Capri, Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 53d Armored Infantry Battalion, in action against enemy forces on 10 January 1945. Private Capri's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 82 (1945)

*CARLSON, FRANKLIN E. (KIA)
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 362nd Infantry Regiment, 91st Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 Oct 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Franklin E. Carlson (39458979), Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 362d Infantry Regiment, 91st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 October 1944. Technician Fifth Grade Carlson'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 91st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 11 (1945)
Home Town: Kootenai County, Idaho

CLARKE, JAMES A. (not specifically identified as a medic)
Private, U.S. Army
116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 7 Jun 1944
Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James A. Clarke (33181894), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 June 1944, at Normandy, France. As Private Clarke's battalion was advancing, they were hit with severe artillery and machine gun fire and were forced to withdraw slightly. Due to this extremely heavy fire, they were unable to take back with them their wounded personnel. Private Clarke, from his position of cover, observed that two men from his company were lying in a field severely wounded. Private Clarke secured a horse and cart from a nearby farmyard. Despite the intense enemy fire and, with complete disregard for his own safety, he drove the horse and cart to the wounded. He administered first aid and then loaded the wounded men into the cart and brought them to safety. Private Clarke's 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 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944)

COBBETT, WARREN E.
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Company D, 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division
Date of Action: 3 Jan 1945
Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Warren E. Cobbett, Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company D, 502d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 January 1945, in Belgium. On that date, positions of Company D, 502nd Parachute Infantry near Longchamps, Belgium, were assaulted by a strong force of German tanks supported by artillery. Although heavy casualties were suffered the men held their positions on a bald, snow-covered slope, and it was on that completely exposed terrain that Technician fifth Grade Cobbett fearlessly braved enemy fire to evacuate and give aid to the wounded. He obtained a quarter-ton truck and although it was not marked with the medical insignia he boldly drove it among the enemy tanks in order to reach overrun positions. By his absolute fearlessness Technician Fifth Grade Cobbett saved many lives and inspired his comrades to hold fast and deny infantry support to the enemy tanks. 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 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 100 (May 11, 1945)

COLL, ANTHONY P. (also Silver Star recipient)
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 34th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 6 May 1943
Synopsis: Citation Needed
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Anthony P. Coll, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with a Medical Detachment, 34th Infantry Division in action against enemy forces on 6 May 1943 in North Africa. When six soldiers of an adjacent unit were wounded by mortar fire, Private First Class Coll unhesitatingly left his position and under a hail of bullets and shrapnel moved to the wounded soldiers. Four were alive and he ministered first aid and got them back to safety. He then spotted an officer wounded by sniper fire. He braved the sniper’s fire to reach the officer, render aid and assist him in moving to safety. His unit had been cut off from their water supply for 3 days and although warned not to attempt to get to the water, Private First Class Coll sprinted to the water supply with 6 canteens, filled them and returned to provide needed water to his patients. Private First Class Coll's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Army-North African Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 37 (1943)
Home of Record: Johnstown, PA

CONGER, ALMON N., JR.
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26 Feb 1945
Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Almon N. Conger, Jr. (39457112), Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Medical Detachment, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 February 1945 in Germany. In the face of heavy enemy small arms fire and with complete disregard for his personal safety, Technician Conger, a surgical technician, voluntarily left the comparative safety of his shelter to administer first aid to the wounded. While so engaged he was wounded in the back but despite his own wound, Technician Conger, in order to further protect the wounded, lay between them and the grazing fire. Technician Fifth Grade Conger's extraordinary heroism, 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 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 129 (1945)
Home Town: Spokane, Washington

*CONWAY, CLAUDE E. (KIA)
Private, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division
Date of Action: 3 Jun 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Claude E. Conway (34872375), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 June 1944. Private Conway'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 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 106 (1944)
Home Town: Perry County, Mississippi

COPELAND, EDWARD W.
Technician Third Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 411th Infantry Regiment
Date of Action: 15 Mar 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Edward W. Copeland, Technician Third Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 411th Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 15 March 1945. Technician Third Grade Copeland's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 318 (July 16, 1945)

CORNIAK, JOSEPH JR.
Second Lieutenant, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
Medical Battalion, 1st Infantry Division
Date of Action: unknown
Synopsis: Citation Needed
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Joseph Corniak Jr., Second Lieutenant, Medical Corps, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer with a Medical Battalion, 1st Infantry Division in action against enemy forces during WW II. Second Lieutenant Corniak’s 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders: General Order number 94, Headquarters, First Army, 1944

COTTER, JOHN J.
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
116th Infantry, Regimental Medical Detachment
Date of Action: 6 June 1944
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John J. Cotter (0-429492), Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer of the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. Captain Cotter landed early in the assault upon the coast of France as part of the Regimental Medical Detachment. At this time the beach was subjected to intense enemy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire and numerous casualties had been inflicted. With complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Cotter administered medical attention to the wounded under this heavy fire. His fortitude and devotion to duty in rendering aid to the wounded under such hazardous and difficult conditions inspired those who saw him to a more determined effort in meeting the enemy. Captain Cotter's intrepid actions, personal courage and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944)

COYLE, JOHN J.
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 303rd Engineer Combat Battalion
Date of Action: 6 Jan 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John J. Coyle, Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 303d Engineer Combat Battalion, in action against enemy forces on 6 January 1945. Private First Class Coyle's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 58 (1945)

*CRANFILL, BARRY, JR. (KIA)
Private First Class, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division
Date of Action: 26-29 May 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Barry Cranfill, Jr. (35097195), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the Medical Detachment, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 26 to 29 May 1944. Private First Class Cranfill'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 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 114 (July 9, 1944)
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana

DANNENBERG, LESTER
First Lieutenant, Medical Administrative Corps, U.S. Army
Luzon, Philippine Islands
Date of Action: 15 Jan 1945
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Medical Administrative Corps) Lester Dannenberg, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer with Medical Administration Corps, in action against enemy forces on at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 15 January 1945. Lieutenant Dannenberg was in charge of the first echelon of an aid station group attempting to reach an infantry outpost where heavy casualties had been sustained. No information about enemy strength was available and the advance of the rescue party had to be made through open fields and across two rivers exposed to hostile fire. When the Commander of the Infantry battalion was wounded crossing the first river, Lieutenant Dannenberg followed close behind and directed his prompt removal to cover. Later when rifle and machine gun fire stopped the rescue party and split the company holding a road block, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to administer first aid to the men in foxholes and to withdraw the wounded to safety. Though all personnel were warned not to cross a road covered by enemy machine guns, he crossed it repeatedly to reach the other half of the company, where he also rendered medical assistance. On his last trip a litter bearer accompanying him was wounded and Lieutenant Dannenberg, at the risk of his life, remained in his exposed position and assisted the disabled man to cover. His complete disregard for his own safety, his courageous actions and outstanding gallantry above and beyond the call of duty are worthy of the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Medical Admin Corps, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
General Order number 131, Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, 5 June 1945

DAVIS, DONALD K.
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 17th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron
Date of Action: 3 Mar 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Donald K. Davis, Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with a Medical Detachment, 17th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, in action against enemy forces on 3 March 1945. Technician Fifth Grade Davis' 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 139 (1945)

DE FELICE, MARIO T.
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
66th Armored Regiment, 2nd Armored Division
Date of Action: 27 Jul 1944
Citation:
By direction of the President, under the provisions of AR 600-45, 22 September 1943, as amended, and under authority contained in Circular No 32, Headquarters European Theater of Operations, United States Army, 20 March 1944, as amended, the Distinguished Service Cross is awarded to Captain Mario T. De Felice, Medical Corps, 66th Armored Regiment, 2nd Armored Division, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against the enemy. On 27 July 1944, during an attack near Le Mesnil Herman, France, Captain De Felice, a battalion surgeon, in order to evacuate the wounded, directed his half-track ambulance forward until it was almost completely surrounded by the enemy. While engaged in evacuating the wounded men, an enemy artillery barrage killed a first-aid man and wounded two infantrymen who were covering his movements. Captain De Felice, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, administered first aid to all the wounded men, without any assistance whatsoever, and loaded them into the ambulance. The extra extraordinary heroism and courageous actions of Captain De Felice reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
General Orders: General Order number 49, Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, 24 November 1944
Home of Record: New Jersey

*DEROSIER, EDWIN C. (KIA)
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
128th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division
Date of Action: 19 Nov 1942
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Edwin C. Derosier (36209011), Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 19 November 1942, during the Papuan Campaign in Buna. Technician Fifth Grade DeRosier'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 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 14 (1943)
Home Town: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

*DETER, DWIGHT M. (MIA-KIA)
Lieutenant Colonel, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
HQ, Visayan-Mindanao Guerilla Forces
Date of Action: 10 Apr 1942
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Dwight M. Deter (0-264577), Lieutenant Colonel (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters, Visayan-Mindanao Guerilla Forces, in action against enemy forces on 10 April 1942, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Colonel Deter'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 60 (1946)
Home Town: Travis County, Texas

*DIETSCH, ROY L. (KIA)
Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Department
Date of Action: 16 Jun 1944
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Roy L. Dietsch, Technician Fifth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with a Medical Detachment, in action against enemy forces on 16 June 1944. Technician Fifth Grade Dietsch'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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 111 (1944)

DIXON, HAROLD M.
Technician Third Grade, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 117th Infantry, 30th Division
Date of Action: 16 November 1944
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Harold M. Dixon, Technician Third Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 November 1944, in Germany. During an attack, an infantry company encountered a dense minefield and many casualties were sustained. Technician Third Grade Dixon, a surgical technician, voluntarily entered the minefield to aid his wounded comrades, but in so doing, he stepped on a mine and a portion of his right leg was blown off. Regardless of his wound, he continued to crawl forward until a second exploding mine badly shattered his other leg. Although seriously wounded and in great pain, he continued to direct the aidmen to the wounded soldiers. Technician Third Grade Dixon's 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 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders: Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 66 (1945)
Home Town: Maryland

DONOVAN, WILLIAM N.
Captain, Medical Corps, U.S. Army
45th Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts
Date of Action: 20 Jan and 11 Feb 1942
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William N. Donovan, Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Officer with the 45th Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against enemy forces on 20 January and on 11 February 1942, in the Philippine Islands. Captain Donovan's 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, his unit, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 40 (1942)

DUMM, RUSSELL A.
Private, U.S. Army
Medical Detachment, 242nd Infantry Regiment, 42nd Infantry Division
Date of Action: 3 Mar 1945
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Russell A. Dumm, Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Medical Detachment, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 March 1945. Private Dumm's 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 42d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
General Orders:
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 480 (September 7, 1945)