Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Staff Sergeant

Unit:

Company K, 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division "Old Reliables", U.S. Army

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James W. Searles (35263327), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 November 1944, in Germany. While leading his platoon toward a strong enemy position, Staff Sergeant Searles, far in advance of his men, observed approximately 50 Germans attempting to encircle his group. He single-handedly engaged the entire force with his rifle, killing two and forcing the surrender of 40 of the enemy. Arriving at a well-fortified castle, the company's objective, he crossed a fire-swept courtyard to reach a fatally wounded soldier. From his hazardous position he killed two enemy snipers and, despite a painful wound made his way back to his company with information which expedited the capture of the castle. Sergeant Searles' 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 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

For action on 26 November 1944 in the attack against the fortified Frenzerberg Castle between the town of Frenz and Langerwehe/Rhine Province, Germany.