Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Technical Sergeant

Unit:

116th Infantry Regiment

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Howard W. Rogers (33047696), Technical Sergeant [then Sergeant], 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 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. Soon after landing on the coast of France with the initial assault wave of troops, Technical Sergeant Rogers became separated from his unit and found himself in a group of other soldiers who were also separated from their organizations. Upon discovering an enemy pillbox from which devastating machine gun fire was being directed, he quickly organized this group of soldiers into a raiding party. With complete disregard for his own safety, he fearlessly, despite intense enemy fire, led the raiding party in an assault upon the pillbox and destroyed this enemy gun position. Technical Sergeant Rogers' initiative, 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.

Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944).