Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division "Indianhead", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

December 23rd, 1944

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Mike S. Rabago (38555193), Sergeant [then Private First Class], U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 29 August 1944, in France. Sergeant Rabago observed an enemy concussion grenade thrown toward a comrade. Without hesitation, and with utter disregard for his own life, he attempted to intercept the grenade, which fell to the ground after striking him in the chest. Courageously, he dropped to the ground and smothered the grenade with his helmet to prevent injury to others nearby. Although wounded and shocked by the subsequent explosion, he heroically opened fire with his rifle toward the emplacement from which the grenade was thrown. Sergeant Rabago'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 2d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 100 (December 23, 1944).