Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Staff Sergeant (Sergeant-Major)

Unit:

Company I, 377th Infantry Regiment, 95th Infantry Division "Iron Men of Metz", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

1945

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Earl F. Thurston, Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 377th Infantry Regiment, 95th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 15 December 1944. Sergeant First Class Thurston was leading his squad against enemy fortifications when they encountered intensive enemy machinegun and sniper fire. He ordered his men to cover and went forward alone. Maneuvering to the rear of the building where the snipers were located, he killed one with a pistol fire, crawled silently upon the second and killed him with a knife. Working his way to a position near the machinegun, Sergeant First Class Thurston rousted its crew with pistol fire, seized the weapon and opened fire upon enemy trenches. Through his bold actions and fearless leadership, Sergeant First Class Thurston inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy and permitted his squad to capture its objective. His gallantry, 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 95th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 76 (1945).