Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

Company C, 1st Battalion, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division "Trailblazers", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

May 11th, 1945

For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy. On 22 February 1945, the enemy counterattacked positions held by Private Stephens’ company. When an assaulting tank threatened to break through, Private Stephens, with complete disregard for his own safety advanced alone through intense fire, armed only with a rocket launcher. Although under direct enemy observation he obtained a position within 15 yards of the tank and put it out of action with one round of fire. Private Stephens fought on with characteristic aggressiveness with his unit until he was killed by enemy fire on 25 February 1945. The courage displayed and his loyal devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Reg. nr. 34946539, awarded posthumously. Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 100 (May 11, 1945).