Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Staff Sergeant (Sergeant-Major)

Unit:

Company A, 743rd Tank Battalion, 30th Infantry Division "Old Hickory", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

February 17th, 1945

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Anthony A. Tempesta (33082666), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion, attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 October 1944, in Germany.

Staff Sergeant Tempesta displayed marked personal bravery in a combined infantry-tank attack upon a German village. During the day's engagement, while continuously exposed to hostile fire, he directed the fire of his tank in destroying two anti-tank guns and six vehicles mounting 20-mm. guns. In addition, Staff Sergeant Tempesta inflicted heavy casualties upon infantry ranks and made dangerous reconnaissance missions on foot to locate enemy strongpoints. Upon learning that all officers had been wounded, he voluntarily assumed command of the entire company and successfully led his tanks in the accomplishment of a difficult mission. Staff Sergeant Tempesta's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, 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.

Awarded posthumously
Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (February 17, 1945).