Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

3rd Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army (3rd Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant Vernon J. Freitas, 0-1170375. Field Artillery, United States Army, for heroic service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States, near ***, France, on 10 August 1944. A special task force consisting of Company “I”, 134th Infantry and attached artillery launched an attack toward *** with the mission of striking the rear and flank of enemy forces holding up the advance of two infantry battalions. When the task force was held up 1000 yards short of the town by heavy enemy fire of all types, Lieutenant Freitas, Artillery Liaison Officer, advanced alone about 300 yards through enemy positions to a building from which he was able to direct accurate artillery fire in neutralizing the enemy artillery and mortar fire. The accurate fire direction of Lieutenant Freitas enabled the task force to continue its advance and accomplish its mission. His courage and devotion to duty reflects credit upon the military service.
Entered military service from California.


For action performed on 10 August 1944, near Saint-Jean-du-Corail/Manche department, Basse-Normandie, France.
Headquarters 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (2 September 1944).