Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division "Indianhead", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

February 15th, 1945

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Jesse Lee Morrow (0-1292372), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 and 18 December 1944, in Belgium. As a German infantry-tank force attempted to overrun his battalion command post, First Lieutenant Morrow quickly organized headquarters personnel to stave off the attack. As one of the tanks directed its fire upon him, First Lieutenant Morrow advanced boldly, fired a rifle grenade and knocked the tank out of action. On the following day, a second attack was launched with five tanks and supporting infantrymen. Moving alone toward the tanks, First Lieutenant Morrow placed effective rifle grenade fire upon the tanks at extremely close range before he was seriously wounded. His heroic actions were instrumental in the total destruction of the attacking force. First Lieutenant Morrow's inspiring leadership, 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.


HQ First U.S. Army, GO 27 February 15th 1945