Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

Company D, 2nd Battalion, 274th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division "Trailblazers", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

July 19th, 1945

Citation:
"For heroic achievement in action from 2 January to 20 March 1945, in France. Over an extended period of time, Sergeant Klettlinger constantly displayed heroism beyond the call of duty. Often he volunteered for patrols and guard duty on hazardous posts. When neceasary he acted as a rifleman, proving himself an exceptional soldier. Between 21 February and 20 March, his machine gun squad performed in a superior manner in driving back numerous enemy counterattacks. When enemy riflemen counter attack supported by tanks he kept his squad in position at all times even after his rifle support had withdrawn, frustrating the hostile force. Sergeant Klettlinger’s intrepidity has been a constant source of inspiration and encouragement to the men who served with him."

General Orders No. 70, Headquarters 70th Infantry Division (19 July 1945).