Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private First Class

Unit:

Company F, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division "The Big Red One", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

August 6th, 1944

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Harry E. Griffin (ASN: 31252899), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 June 1944, in France. Company F, 18th Infantry was being held up by heavy sniper and automatic weapons fire from hedgerows which bordered the road along which the company was advancing. Private First Class Griffin leaped to the machine gun mounted on a 1/4 ton vehicle and, from this exposed position, began to fire at the enemy. Observing that his fire was effective but not decisive, he and the driver decided to silence the resistance. Firing constantly, Private First Class Griffin stood at the handle of his gun as the driver moved the vehicle out in front of the company. As the vehicle was driven up the road between the hedgerows, Private First Class Griffin kept a constant stream of fire raking the bushes. This fire was effective and reduced the enemy resistance, permitting the company to advance. Private First Class Griffin's intrepid actions, 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 42 (6 August 1944).