Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

S-2 Officer 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division "All American", U.S. Army

Citation:
Eugene A. Doerfler, First Lieutenant, 505th Parachute Infantry, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States in the vicinity of Sainte-Mère-Église, France on 7 June 1944. When a counterattack against the enemy was planned, Lieutenant Doerfler volunteered to guide four tanks into position against the enemy. Upon reaching the line of departure, machine gun fire caused the tanks to halt. Lieutenant Doerfler went forward alone and destroyed the enemy position. He then removed a mine barrier and continued to lead the tanks forward. Reaching a hedgerow he made a reconnaissance and discovered an enemy strongpoint. Lieutenant Doerfler moved to a flank position and emptied his Thompson submachine gun along the hedgerow, causing complete disruption of the enemy. He then led the tanks through the area and by his indomitable leadership and courage caused a group of enemy estimated at a company to surrender. His extraordinary heroism and leadership contributed materially to the reduction of the enemy salient at Sainte-Mère-Église. Entered military service from Hays, Kansas.

General Orders: Headquarters, XVIII Airborne Corps, General Orders No. 10 (January 22, 1945).