Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. Hilary P. Jones (DD-427), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

December 15th, 1944

"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HILARY P. JONES (DD-427), while operating in support of the Allied ground forces on the coast of the Franco-Italian Riviera, in September 1944. On the night of 7 - 8 September 1944, when attacked by enemy explosive boats, Commander Stiesberg, exercising alert and decisive action, avoided the first which exploded in the wake of his ship and forthwith engaged two others which were in all probability destroyed by his accurate and vigorous gunfire. On 10 September 1944, he displayed extreme initiative and skill in an attack on and almost positive destruction of two enemy human torpedoes attempting to attain a favorable firing position. At San Remo, on 18 September 1944, in the space of an hour-and-a-half while under severe fire of hostile shore artillery, by his able conning, intelligent use of information, and expert fire control, the gunfire of the U.S.S. HILLARY P. JONES destroyed an anti-aircraft battery, a fuel dump, an ammunition dump and about twelve enemy vessels in the harbor area. Subsequently, he returned to conduct additional bombardment at Porto Maurizio and his gallant execution of this firing mission resulted in the destruction of enemy shipping and supply dumps and the silencing of several heavy coastal batteries. His overall accomplishments in these actions assisted materially in the advance of the Allied ground forces in clearing enemy-held territory and contributed to his ultimate defeat. The exceptional courage, aggressive and determined action under fire and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Commander Stiesberg were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander 8th Fleet: Serial 5916

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)