Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Company K, 407th Infantry Regiment, 102nd Infantry Division "Ozark", U.S. Army (Company K, 407th Infantry Regiment, 102nd Infantry Division "Ozark", U.S. Army)

Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William A. Rhodey, Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding an Infantry Company of the 407th Infantry Regiment, 102d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 30 November 1944, in Germany. Captain Rhodey led his men in an attack against a heavily fortified town. As the drive pressed forward, it encountered heavy enemy artillery, mortar, and small arms fire. Realizing the catastrophic consequences should the attack lose momentum, Captain Rhodey, with complete disregard for the enemy fire, stood up, shouted encouragement to his men and charged into the town. Captain Rhodey fearlessly faced the enemy fire gain to summon supporting tanks that relieved a tense situation. The extraordinary heroism and aggressive actions of Captain Rhodey exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 102d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.


Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 71 (1945).