Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Technical Sergeant

Unit:

Company A, 2nd Ranger Battalion, Provisional Ranger Group, V Corps, First Army, U.S. Army

Awarded on:

June 20th, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Overlord

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John W. White (31135430), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with 2d Ranger Infantry Battalion, in action against the enemy from 6 June 1944 to 8 June 1944 at Vierville and Pointe du Hoc, France. When all the officers of his company became casualties in the initial landing on the coast of France from the devastating enemy fire he assumed command of machine gun positions and directed their fire on the enemy positions. Later he personally acted as the point of the column, which advanced from the beach to Pointe du Hoc. On this advance, Sergeant White exposed himself to the direct rifle and machine gun fire of the enemy as well as sniper fire. Technical Sergeant White's excellent leadership and gallantry under such difficult and hazardous circumstances 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.

HQ, First U.S. Army, GO 28, June 20th, 1944.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)