Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sous-Lieutenant (Second Lieutenant)

Unit:

Special Operations, Office of Strategic Services (OSS), U.S. Government

Awarded on:

May 8th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Sussex

For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, while serving with the Office of Strategic Services, in action against enemy forces from 7 May 1944 to 25 August 1944. Sous-Lieutenant DeGorse, together with a radio operator, was parachuted into France to operate as a secret intelligence officer. Sous-Lieutenant DeGorse and his teammate succeeded in gathering and transmitting information regarding identification of troop units, location of V-1 ramps and other important matters. In compliance with a special request, information was obtained regarding the location of three auxiliary airfields on which enemy planes took refuge during allied raids. On a trip to find a safe house in another location to which he and his teammate were ordered to move, Sous-Lieutenant DeGorse was arrested, but he succeeded in maintaining his cover and obtaining his release after several hours of interrogation. Sous-Lieutenant DeGorse's outstanding accomplishments, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the Allied Nations."

Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 85