Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

2nd Lieutenant

Unit:

Company A, 81st Tank Battalion, 5th Armored Division "Victory", U.S. Army (Company A, 81st Tank Battalion, 5th Armored Division "Victory", U.S. Army)

Shirley J. Duran, 02005446, Second Lieutenant, Infantry, United States Army for gallantry in action in Germany on 2 April 1945. While acting as advance guard for an armored task force, Second Lieutenant Duran was reconnoitering a route through a town when his tank was attacked by two enemy tanks. By skillful employment of his tank he destroyed both enemy tanks. In spite of the fact that he had been wounded when his tank received a direct hit, Second Lieutenant Duran immediately mounted another tank and continued to lead his platoon and submitted to medical evacuation only after the mission had been accomplished. The gallant conduct and disregard for his own safety displayed by Second Lieutenant Duran is worthy of the highest traditions in the military service. Entered military service from Iowa.

Headquarters, 5th Armored Divions, General Orders No. 18 (15 May 1945).
For action performed on 2 April, at Sassenberg/Province of Westphalia, Germany.