Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

3rd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division "Old Hickory", U.S. Army (3rd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division "Old Hickory", U.S. Army)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Howard W. Greer, Major (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Battalion of the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 October 1944, near Bardenberg in Germany.

On that date, Major Greer was leading his battalion in an attack through an enemy-held town in Germany, when the leading elements of his unit were pinned down by enemy tanks and half-tracks. With complete disregard for his own personal safety and armed with a rocket launcher, Major Greer moved forward and with one shot knocked out the leading enemy tank. Major Greer sustained lacerations about the face and hands when enemy fire struck a nearby building. Undaunted and with heroic courage, he continued forward to destroy a second enemy tank. His men psychologically inspired by the intrepid actions of their leader, surged forward to successfully complete their mission. The extraordinary heroism and courageous actions of Major Greer exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, Ninth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 68 (1944).

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division "Old Hickory", U.S. Army

Citation unavailable.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division "Old Hickory", U.S. Army

This award was obtained in the form of an Oak Leave to be attached on the ribbon of the first award. Citation unavailable.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division "Old Hickory", U.S. Army

Citation unavailable.