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Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 1001 - December 18, 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal John C. Falconer, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Corporal Falconer distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Changpong-ni, Korea, on 20 May 1951. Corporal Falconer was a squad leader in a platoon that had the mission of attacking high terrain held by a well-entrenched enemy force. As the platoon was about to launch its attack, three rounds of artillery fire burst in its midst, disrupting the confidence and morale of the men. Corporal Falconer, after artillery and air strikes had been delivered on the enemy positions, charged forward through withering hostile fire and tossed a grenade into an enemy machine-gun position, neutralizing it. This daring action so inspired members of the platoon that they followed him in his aggressive advance and, using grenades and rifle fire, inflicted heavy casualties on the hostile troops and secured the objective. Later, when the enemy counterattacked in overwhelming numbers, he obtained an automatic weapon and from an exposed position single-handedly covered the evacuation of the wounded and the withdrawal of his platoon. When an enemy group attempted to overrun his position, he raked them with fire, killing five and forcing the remainder to flee.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 330 - May 23, 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant First Class Charles A. Falk (ASN: RA-19338089), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as an observer for an 81-mm. mortar platoon attached to Company K, 3d Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 24th Infantry Division. Sergeant First Class Falk distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Kasan, Korea, on 28 November 1950. When a large enemy force assaulted the company's positions, he immediately called for mortar fire from the platoon and began adjusting the fire on the waves of attacking forces. While directing the fire on the enemy, he was seriously wounded in the back by enemy mortar fire. Completely disregarding his wounds and the increasing intensity of enemy activity, he steadfastly refused to leave his position although he was repeatedly urged to withdraw to the aid station for medical attention. Although Sergeant Falk later ceased to call for adjustment of fire and was subsequently listed as missing in action, his gallant and intrepid action in remaining in position and adjusting fire despite his wounds enabled the mortar platoon to deliver devastating fire on the waves of assaulting enemy troops.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 379 - April 11, 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Maxie Fancher (ASN: ER-14378523), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team. Private First Class Fancher distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sohui-ryong, Korea, on 28 January 1953. On that date, Private Fancher was a member of a platoon that was overrun by the enemy. When enemy troops set up a machine-gun close to his position and opened fire on his comrades, Private Fancher, completely disregarding his own personal safety, unhesitatingly charged the machine-gun crew. He destroyed the crew and turned the weapon on the other enemy troops, inflicting heavy casualties. An enemy soldier fired at Private Fancher from the rear, killing him instantly.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 502 - May 22, 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles Kohl Farabaugh (ASN: 0-62695), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Farabaugh distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Haduch'on, Korea, on 17 July 1952. On that date, Lieutenant Farabaugh led a combat patrol deep into enemy-held territory for the purpose of locating and probing hostile troops. The patrol was surprised by a numerically superior enemy force and a fierce fire-fight ensued. During the battle, Lieutenant Farabaugh observed an element of the enemy force moving slowly to the left of the patrol's position in a flanking maneuver. After carefully estimating the situation, Lieutenant Farabaugh ordered the patrol to withdraw. He then moved from his protective cover through the intense enemy fire to a position from which he could cover the threatened flank. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Farabaugh laid down such a withering hail of fire that the hostile forces were repelled. While he was covering the withdrawal of his patrol through the cleared sector, lieutenant Farabaugh was mortally wounded.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 905 - 16 November 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Joseph E. Farrell (ASN: ER-33586170), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Private First Class Farrell distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Chup'a-ri, Korea, on 3 September 1951. On that date, Company H was subjected to a surprise attack by a numerically superior and fanatically determined hostile force. Without regard for his personal safety, Private Farrell took an exposed position on the fire-swept terrain in order to contact the friendly forces in the area by radio and advise them of the situation. He remained at his post, completely ignoring the volume of enemy fire being concentrated on his position, until he was wounded and the radio destroyed. Because of the vast number of the enemy, the order for the friendly troops to take up more tenable positions was given. Private Farrell voluntarily remained behind as a rear guard to cover the withdrawal of his comrades and succeeded in inflicting numerous casualties among the enemy troops until he was killed by a burst of hostile fire. His fearless actions enabled his comrades to withdraw successfully and undoubtedly saved many of their lives.
General Headquarters, Far East Command
General Orders No. 87 - 20 December 1950
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Herbert Hoover Fear, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Provisional Marine Brigade (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, in action against enemy aggressor forces on the Kosong-Sachon road near the village of Changallon, Korea, on 13 August 1950. At about 0730 on 13 August 1950, the squad in which Private First Class Fear served was ordered to break contact with elements of the 83d North Korean Motorized Regiment on the Kosong-Sachon road, near the village of Changallon. As the unit was withdrawing, intense enemy fire from machine-guns, mortars, and small-arms covered the area, wounding Private Fear and four of his comrades. Refusing medical aid for the painful wound in his left shoulder, he held his ground to cover the evacuation of the wounded men; and, when the enemy attempted to overrun his position, he killed three and deterred many others, gaining valuable time for the withdrawal of his comrades. During this action Private Fear was again wounded by mortar fire in the back and hips, but sill refusing first aid, he continued to fire until his squad had reached a safe place. Only then did he rejoin his unit, whereupon he collapsed form loss of blood and was carried to the aid station. Home of Record: Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 587 - June 21, 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Alan C. Felger, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with a Field Artillery Battalion. Second Lieutenant Felger distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sokkagae, Korea, on 23 March 1953. On that date, Lieutenant Felger was on a position which was assaulted by a numerically-superior enemy force. Displaying superior qualities of leadership and courage, Lieutenant Felger directed effective artillery fire on the advancing enemy. When his position became completely surrounded, Lieutenant Felger, though realizing the possible consequences of his action, called in variable time fire on his own position. For a five-hour period, Lieutenant Felger continued to direct fire on the position, moving among the men shouting words of encouragement and, ultimately, urging them into a counter-attack that was successful in repulsing the hostile assault.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army, Korea
General Orders No. 8 - 24 July 1950).
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Chaplain) Herman Gilbert Felhoelter (ASN: 0-549715), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while attached to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Captain (Chaplain) Felhoelter distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces on the Kum River, north of Taejon, Korea, on 16 July 1950. When seriously wounded men of the 19th Infantry could not be evacuated in the face of an overwhelming night attack by superior enemy forces who had cut off the main route of withdrawal, Chaplain Felhoelter, without regard for his own personal safety, voluntarily remained behind to give his wounded comrades spiritual comfort and aid. When last seen, Chaplain Felhoelter was still administering to the wounded.
Headquarters, Far East Air Forces
General Orders No. 244 - 21 May 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain Manuel J. Fernandez, Jr., United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Pilot with the 334th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing, Fifth Air Force, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Korea on 21 March 1953. During a fighter swoop over North Korea, Captain Fernandez sighted a flight of thirty MIGs, and attempted to release his external fuel tanks in preparation for battle. However, one of the tanks failed to release, impairing the maneuverability of his aircraft. However, despite this handicap, he fearlessly initiated a fierce attack on the last two MIGs in the enemy formation. Closing to twelve hundred feet, he opened fire on one MIG, scoring hits on the fuselage and wing. As he was closing again, the other MIG attached him; however, by a skillfully executed maneuver, he gained tactical advantage over the attacker, and his bursts scored hits which caused the enemy pilot to eject himself from the uncontrollable aircraft. Captain Fernandez then turned again to his initial adversary and, closing dangerously to one hundred and fifty feet, fired several bursts which caused the MIG to burst into flame and go spinning to earth. Captain Fernandez's outstanding flying skill and extraordinary courage in attacking this greatly superior number of enemy aircraft despite the hindrance to maneuverability enabled him to completely destroy two enemy aircraft.
Captain Fred G. Ferris...while commanding officer, Company B, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Chich-on, Korea on 3 and 4 July 1951. On the evening of 3 July, Captain Ferris' company, given the mission of attacking and securing an enemy-held hill, launched a determined assault against the hostile positions. As the friendly troops reached the slope of the objective, a devastating volume of enemy fire pinned them down. Exposing himself to the intense fire, Captain Ferris, with complete disregard for his personal safety, moved among his men, reorganizing them in a skirmish line. Then, shouting words of encouragement to them, he led the friendly troops in a fierce assault that drove the hostile troops from their positions and secured the objective. In the early morning hours of 4 July, the defensive perimeter set up by Captain Ferris was attacked by the fanatically determined enemy. Again he exposed himself to the hostile fire in order to direct artillery fire against the onrushing enemy troops. To stop the hostile force, Captain Ferris directed an artillery barrage to within a short distance of his own position. In the ensuing action the enemy assault was crushed by the heavy volume of artillery fire but Captain Ferris was killed by shrapnel from an artillery shell which fell near his command post....
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders Nos. 27 - August 17, 1950
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Master Sergeant John W. Finley (ASN: RA-7001030), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Master Sergeant Finley distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces Chonji, Korea, on 10 July 1950. On this date, Sergeant Finley's Platoon was under extremely heavy attack by superior enemy forces supported by heavy artillery, tank and automatic weapons fire. Personnel of the Platoon began to withdraw and, seeing this, Sergeant Finley, in order to encourage his men to stay in their positions, secured a machine-gun from its mount, stood up, and without regard for his own safety, advanced alone on the enemy inflicting heavy casualties until the machine gun was knocked from his hands by a bullet. He then secured a rifle and continued effective fire on the enemy. By his aggressive leadership he encouraged the members of his platoon to hold their positions.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 78 - February 17, 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Clifford C. Finn (ASN: RA-21904275), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a driver with Company B, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Private First Class Finn distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Anju, Korea, on 4 November 1950. On that date, enemy forces in overwhelming numbers attacked positions held by Private First Class Finn's unit through wooded, hilly terrain. The enemy attack involved flanking and infiltrating movements, and was executed with speed and vigor in an attempt to encircle the positions. Private Finn, a driver, instantly manned the machine-gun mounted on his vehicle and delivered deadly accurate bursts of fire into the ranks of the advancing enemy, which for a few moments halted their advance in his sector. At this time, Private Finn started the vehicle, and despite the hail of small-arms fire delivered against him, drove it forward toward the enemy. He again manned his machine-gun and continued his deadly destruction of the enemy troops until mortally wounded, but in so doing, killed at least twenty-five enemy soldiers, and materially assisted in the defense of the company command post.
Headquarters, Far East Air Forces
General Orders No. 9 - 1954
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain Harold E. Fischer (AFSN: AO-2204126), United States Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of an F-86 aircraft, 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 51st Fighter-Interceptor Wing, Fifth Air Force, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Korea on 16 February 1953. On that date, while leading a flight of two F-86 Sabre Jets on an air superiority mission over North Korea, Captain Fischer sighted a formation of sixteen enemy MIG-15s heading south across the Yalu River. Disregarding the odds against him, he immediately initiated an attack. Although under intense enemy fire, Captain Fischer tenaciously pursued the leading MIG-15 through violent evasive maneuvers until he had destroyed it. Completely disregarding the fact that several enemy aircraft were still firing at him, Captain Fischer skillfully maneuvered his Sabre into firing position on another MIG-15 that was attacking his wingman. Again demonstrating extreme courage and outstanding flying skill, Captain Fischer pressed his attack until the MIG-15 was destroyed. These two victories in the face of counter attacks by such superior numbers unnerved the enemy to the extent that they withdrew into Manchuria before further attacks could be made. By his outstanding heroism, his complete disregard for personal safety and high sense of duty, Captain Fischer reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.
First Lieutenant Charles A. Fitzgerald...a member of Company I, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Tongmang'ni, Korea. On 25 April 1951, Company I's positions were attacked and overrun by an overwhelmingly large enemy force. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Lieutenant Fitzgerald voluntarily exposed himself to the heavy volume of enemy fire in order to shout encouragement to the small group of men around him. Quickly organizing the men into rifle squads, he deployed them in a skirmish line and then personally led them in a counterattack against the hostile elements, successfully recapturing vital equipment which had been left behind when the positions were overrun. Throughout this entire action, Lieutenant Fitzgerald remained in an exposed position, effectively directing the fire of his men. When the company was finally ordered to withdraw to new defensive positions, Lieutenant Fitzgerald personally assured himself that the wounded and dead were evacuated...
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 758 - December 9, 1952
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Edward G. Flanagan (ASN: 0-2021208), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Second Lieutenant Flanagan distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea, on the morning of 13 October 1952. On that morning, Lieutenant Flanagan was leading a patrol in a raid on heavily fortified enemy positions on a tactically important hill. In the early stages of the assault, the friendly infantrymen were subjected to an intense volume of hostile small-arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire. Painfully wounded in the abdomen, Lieutenant Flanagan refused to return to friendly lines. Instead, he continued to advance at the head of his men, leading them through a hail of fire to their objective. Then, while demolition crews placed explosive charges near the hostile fortifications, he charged forward alone in order to distract the enemy. Large numbers of hostile troops left their positions and swarmed towards him, but he single-handedly fought them back, killing at least five of the foe in a pitched, close-range battle. He continued to repulse the enemy until a hostile mortar round landed near his position, killing him instantly. Lieutenant Flanagan's extraordinary heroism and noble self-sacrifice enabled the patrol to accomplish hits mission.
Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Richard L. Fleischmann, army Medical Service, a member of Medical Company, 2nd Infantry, for action against the enemy in the vicinity of Changyong, on 6 September 1950. On the afternoon of 6 September, Private Fleischmann was assigned as aid man to the machine-gun platoon of Company H, 23rd Infantry Regiment. One section of the platoon came under extremely heavy machine-gun and mortar fire and the section leader was wounded. In spite of concentrated enemy fire on the immediate area, Private Fleischmann ran forward to the gun position, removed the section leader to safety, and rendered medical treatment. A few moments later, the gunner of this weapon was also wounded, and once again Private Fleischmann ran into point-blank machine-gun fire and removed this wounded man to safety. Although wounded on the second trip to the machine-gun position, he then took over the machine gun and held off the enemy so that the remainder of the section could reorganize and move to a better position. He remained in position firing the machine gun until he was killed.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 41 - 25 January 1951
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Hubert P. Flerchinger, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment (Infantry), 1st Cavalry Division. Sergeant Flerchinger distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Wanjong-dong, Korea, on 10 and 11 September 1950. While his unit was defending a hill position it came under, and was pinned down by, intense enemy mortar, machine gun and small arms fire. In the ensuing action Sergeant Flerchinger moved about in the heavy enemy fire to successfully direct the defense of his platoon for more than six hours at which time the numerically superior enemy forced them to withdraw. Withdrawing to the base of the hill Sergeant Flerchinger immediately reorganized his forces and personally led them in a fierce counterattack which regained the summit despite bitter enemy resistance. While reestablishing a defense line in this position his unit was fired upon by a nest of enemy snipers which caused several casualties. Armed with only two hand grenades, Sergeant Flerchinger crawled forward to their position in an effort to destroy it. Finding ten enemy soldiers occupying the fox-hole, he engaged them, killing two and wounding three with his hand grenades and forcing four to flee. Grappling with the last remaining enemy in hand to hand combat, Sergeant Flerchinger lifted his opponent above his head, holding him in this position until he was shot by another soldier. Although severely mauled in the action Sergeant Flerchinger refused to be evacuated and remaining with his men effectively directed the successful defense of his regained position. Sergeant Flerchinger's fearless courage, inspiring aggressiveness, and superb leadership was responsible for inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy and turned a possible defeat into victory. His extraordinary heroism reflects great credit on himself and the military service.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 1020 - December 36, 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Manuel H. Flores, Jr. (ASN: RA-19300786), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a flame-thrower operator with Company H, 3d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Corporal Flores distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Chin-ag-ne, Korea, on 19 September 1951. On that date, a friendly force, arranged in a defensive perimeter in an area just taken from the enemy, was counterattacked by a numerically superior force of hostile troops. Corporal Flores observed several of his comrades become casualties from the intense enemy fire. Unhesitatingly he put his weapon aside and moved across the exposed terrain to aid them. After tending to the stricken men and assisting in their evacuation, Corporal Flores picked up a rifle and engaged the enemy. His unit fought furiously but, because of the overwhelming numbers of the enemy, it was ordered to withdraw to more tenable positions. Upon being informed of this, Corporal Flores voluntarily assumed command of a squad and led it to a site directly in the path of the on-rushing foe to fight a rear-guard covering action. From this point, his small group swept the enemy with a devastating fire, pinning them down momentarily and thus permitting the remainder of his unit to complete its withdrawal. Corporal Flores then ordered his squad to move to safety and, resisting all of his comrades' pleas to withdraw himself, he steadfastly remained at his post, delivering deadly accurate fire until his position was overrun and he was mortally wounded. As a result of his self-sacrifice, the friendly force was able to reestablish a defense line which saved it from possible annihilation.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 77 - September 23, 1950
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Donald V. Flowers (ASN: RA-15280847), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Private First Class Flowers distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Taejon, Korea, on 20 July 1950. On that date, Private First Class Flowers was in combat position with his platoon when it came under heavy enemy fire from small arms, automatic weapons, mortars and artillery. Men of the unit were pinned down by the intense fire, when an automatic rifleman was killed and his assistant wounded in attempting to return the fire. Private Flowers without regard for his own safety seized the weapon placing himself in an exposed position in order to obtain a field of fire and killed several enemy riflemen, remaining in position, he reloaded the automatic weapon and silenced an enemy machinegun, which was traversing the platoon area with heavy fire. Private Flowers continued his courageous performance until out of ammunition and ordered to withdraw. The extraordinary heroism employed by Private First Class Flowers on this occasion protected the lives of men in his adjacent units and reflected sterling credit on himself and the military service.
General Headquarters, Far East Command
General Orders No. 24 - February 5, 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Richard R. Fontaine, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Squad Leader with a platoon of Company K, 3d Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Sergeant Fontaine distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Pohang-dong, Korea, on 2 September 1950. Sergeant Fontaine led his squad in a company attack against a strongly fortified enemy hill position from which the enemy had an unobstructed view of the terrain over which the company advanced. Concurrent with the assault, the enemy opened heavy fire, wounding and killing many. Despite these discouraging reverses, Sergeant Fontaine sprang forward, urging the remainder of his men to continue pressing the attack. Disregarding his own painful and partially disabling wounds cause by the flying shrapnel, he steadfastly refused medical aid or evacuation, electing to remain with his unit. His progress hampered by an injured leg, he was some distance to the rear of his platoon when it was pinned down by heavy hostile automatic and artillery cross-fire. Ignoring his wounds and weakened condition from loss of blood, Sergeant Fontaine seized a light machine-gun and struggled forward to knock out two enemy machine-guns and their three-man crews. When a third machine-gun opened fire on his platoon, Sergeant Fontaine, disregarding a veritable hail of enemy bullets, dragged himself and his light weapon to a completely exposed position and successfully annihilated both the gun and its crew. Even then he refused evacuation and placed himself in a position where he could effectively cover his men until they completed entrenchment. He killed approximately nine of the enemy, and through his courageous leadership, superb personal bravery, and selfless devotion to the welfare of others, was principally responsible for maintaining the line and inspired his comrades to efforts which later resulted in seizure of the mountain stronghold.
Headquarters, Eighth United States Army Korea (USAK)
General Orders No. 186 - April 04, 1951
Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Emmette E. Forrester, RA18102243, Infantry, United States Army. Corporal Forrester, a member of Company F, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action at Chirwon-ni, Korea, on 15 September 1950. While occupying a defensive position overlooking the Nam River, Company F was attacked by a numerically superior enemy force. Under cover of intense small-arms and automatic-weapons fire, the enemy approached within grenade distance of gun emplacements. When it became apparent that the company would not be able to hold its position against the overwhelming enemy attack, the order was given for the company to withdraw. Corporal Forrester and a comrade volunteered to remain in position and cover the withdrawal. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he remained exposed to the deadly hail of enemy fire and courageously held the enemy at bay until he was killed. The heroism displayed by Corporal Forrester was an inspiration to his comrades, saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. Entered the federal service from Texas.
Department of the Army
General Orders No. 30 - March 26, 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Paul G. Foster, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. Corporal Foster distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Sidamak, Korea, on 26 June 1952. On that date, Company F was attacking Hill 266 through a heavy barrage of small-arms, grenade, and mortar fire from well-entrenched enemy troops. The 2d platoon had pushed forward within thirty yards of the crest of the hill when it was halted by deadly fire from a reinforced machine-gun position on the left. Without hesitation, Corporal Foster ran within twenty feet of the gun position and attacked it with grenades. He continued his aggressive action for approximately fifteen minutes and finally silenced the gun. When a second gun opened fire on the right, he immediately raced across the open ground, vigorously pressed his grenade attack against the hostile emplacement, and hurled enemy grenades hack into their position in rapid succession. Although urged by his comrades to withdraw, he continued his bold attack for three hours, inflicting casualties on the enemy and silencing the gun. During this action, he was knocked unconscious by the explosion of a grenade which had become lodged on his bandoleer. His inspirational conduct and determined actions contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of his unit's mission. Corporal Foster's gallant actions and sustained courage reflect the greatest credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
Department of the Army
General Orders No. 51 - November 29, 1956
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major (Field Artillery) John C. Fralish, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Headquarters, 503d Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry Division. Major Fralish distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Ch'ongnyongch'am, Korea, on 30 November 1950 and 1 December 1950. When his battalion was cut off several miles behind enemy lines, surrounded and attacked from all sides by vastly superior numbers of enemy troops, Major Fralish took command of and led a successful attack to break out of the trap and thwart the enemy's plan to destroy the entire command. When the battalion's motorized column was halted by fanatical attacks at dusk, he voluntarily executed a detailed ground reconnaissance of enemy strength and locations, during which he was under intense enemy fire and suffered wounds three different times. Despite the heavy volume of mortar, machine-gun and small-arms fire from the surrounding hills, Major Fralish succeeded in emplacing a 155-mm. howitzer and took the enemy positions under direct fire, personally bore sighting the howitzer for each round, until enemy fire disabled the weapon and killed the cannoneer. He then ordered the anti-aircraft self-propelled automatic weapons with the column to be brought forward and directed their fire on the targets he had located by reconnaissance. After neutralizing many of the enemy weapons and repelling several direct assaults on the head of the column, he gave orders to maintain fire on enemy positions and started organizing a convoy to move out at the opportune time. Ignoring the constant hail of mortar fire and bullets, Major Fralish moved confidently from place to place within the perimeter, pushing the self-propelled weapons forward, pointing out targets to be taken under fire, directing the clearing of burning and disable vehicles from the road, recruiting drivers to replace those who had been killed or wounded, directing the loading of those who were wounded onto the vehicles, and giving orders and instructions on every hand. Major Fralish continued to display such leadership, confidence, and valor that the men around him were imbued with his indomitable spirit until the disorganized group became in invincible fighting force. Thus inspired, hundreds of men rallied around him and placed a devastating volume of fire on the enemy positions as he directed. Finally the convoy fought a running fight for eight miles and broke clear of the enemy trap. Major Fralish's inspired leadership, combined with his absolute disregard for his own safety, and his extreme coolness under intense enemy fire were directly responsible for the success of the battalion in its mission. The extraordinary courage and indomitable will displayed by Colonel Fralish in risking his life repeatedly to organize and lead the remnants of his own and several other units reflect the greatest credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. (This award supersedes the award of the Silver Star to Colonel Fralish, for gallantry in action on 30 November 1950, published in General Orders No. 97, Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, APO 248, 5 May 1951).
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 11 - January 24, 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joseph Ross Franklin (ASN: 0-62893), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Platoon Leader with an Infantry Company of the 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Franklin distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sangwan-ni, Korea, on 6 July 1952. Late on that night, Lieutenant Franklin's platoon, occupying an outpost position on a tactically important ridge, was subjected to an intense artillery and mortar bombardment immediately followed by a smashing hostile attack. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Franklin moved from position to position through heavy fire, encouraging his men and directing their efforts as they fought to hold back the charging enemy waves. Learning that the perimeter had been breached and that a number of the enemy were in the outpost, he led a bayonet charge against the hostile troops. When the automatic rifle used by one of his men refused to function, he gave his carbine to the automatic rifleman, continuing to engage in the struggle with his pistol and grenades. As he led his men against the enemy, a hostile grenade hit him in the shoulder. Before the missile exploded, he pushed two comrades to the ground, enabling them to escape injury or death. When the first two friendly counterattacks failed to dislodge the foe, Lieutenant Franklin organized and led a third charge. Aggressively continuing to advance, even after the ammunition for his pistol had been expended, he killed three of the enemy with accurately hurled grenades. Under his leadership, his men succeeded in driving the hostile troops from the outpost and retained control of the tactically important position. The extraordinary heroism exhibited by Lieutenant Franklin throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the military service.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 187 - December 05, 1950
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Herbert W. Freeman (ASN: RA-16320649), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Private First Class Freeman distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Agok, Korea, during the period from 1 through 7 September 1950. In the early morning hours of 1 September 1950, the enemy attacked with overwhelming forces the thinly held lines of the 9th Infantry Regiment. They overran the positions and were attempting to cut the Division's main supply route. Private Freeman was ordered by his company commander to take his squad and clean out an enemy force which had infiltrated to the rear of the positions held by Company A. Under his aggressive leadership the enemy force was attacked and fifteen enemy killed. A wounded American soldier being held by the enemy was also rescued. Private Freeman, realizing that the enemy might overrun the supply line, personally destroyed all the ammunition, supplies, and vehicles so completely that they would be of no use to the enemy. Upon his return to the company position he booby-trapped all paths leading to the company. On the night of 1 September 1950, Private Freeman was ordered to take care of four wounded men and to bring up the rear of the company as they withdrew to a better defensive position. During the night, Private Freeman and his squad of about fifteen men and four wounded men were cut off from the main body and forced to take cover in a rice paddy. For the next five days and nights he led his squad and the wounded through enemy-held territory, often under heavy fire. He always went ahead and scouted out the areas to assure the safety of the men with him and to avoid enemy positions. He continually administered to the needs of the wounded, provided food and water for all the men, and finally brought them all to the safety of their own lines. On the morning of 7 September 1950, he volunteered to join a patrol to search for some of the missing men of the company. The patrol was stopped by heavy enemy small-arms and machine-gun fire. Alone, he attacked the machine-gun position destroying the crew and the gun and was severely wounded in this action.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 379 - June 1, 1951
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Paul Lamar Freeman, Jr. (ASN: 0-17704), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of the 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Colonel Freeman distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of the Twin Tunnels area south of Chipyong-ni, Korea, during the period from 31 January 1951 through 15 February 1951. On 31 January 1951, Colonel Freeman was ordered to move his regimental combat team to the vicinity of the Twin Tunnels area south of Chipyong-ni and prevent the enemy from occupying the area. Colonel Freeman, with two battalions, entered the Twin Tunnels area without effecting contact with the enemy in the late afternoon of 31 January 1951. Realizing that the enemy forces were not yet emplaced, he deployed his troops in a tight defensive perimeter for the night. At 0450 hours on 1 February 1951, the enemy struck, pressing the attack with such fury that the regimental lines were penetrated in two places. The fighting was intense and the issue hung in the balance throughout the day; however, under the skillful leadership and personal example Colonel Freeman, the task force finally succeeded in routing the enemy at bayonet point, shattering two regiments of the 125th Chinese Communist Division. When the hostile force had been dispersed, 2,855 enemy dead were counted in front of the regimental positions. Reorganizing the combat team, Colonel Freeman led his command forward and occupied positions surrounding the town of Chipyong-ni, a critical point in the United Nations defense line. On the night of 13 February 1951, the enemy struck those positions with overwhelming fury, employing five divisions in the assault. For forty-eight hours the enemy pressed the attack, striking at all sides of the friendly perimeter and placing intense mortar end artillery fire on the positions. Skillfully directing the defense and personally exposing himself to the intense hostile fire to restore breaks in the line, Colonel Freeman so inspired his troops that they successfully routed the fanatically superior hostile force and counted over 5,000 enemy casualties surrounding their positions at the conclusion of the engagement. Although wounded in the final phase of the engagement, he reorganized the combat team and deployed it in defense of the secured area.
Headquarters, Far East Air Forces
General Orders No. 314 - July 10, 1953
Distinguished Service Cross to Lawrence E. Freligh (A0-801757), Major, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of a B-26 type aircraft, 6167th Air Base Group, Fifth Air Force, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Korea on 8 December 1952. On that date, Major Freligh was directing a fighter-bomber attack over Ullyl, North Korea. While Major Freligh was pulling out of a run on the target, a forty millimeter anti-aircraft shell exploded inside the cockpit inches away from him, tearing a gaping hole the size of a man's fist in his hip. Although he was thrown into a temporary state of shock, Major Freligh struggled to maintain control of the aircraft, which had begun to lose altitude. Remaining conscious only through the utmost determination despite intense pain and the fact that his legs were paralyzed and his sight and hearing impaired, Major Freligh flew the aircraft back to base, guided only by the hand signals of his navigator. Upon reaching the base, Major Freligh elected to attempt a wheels-down landing, in order to prevent injury to the crew. This landing was skillfully accomplished by Major Freligh, although he was suffering excruciating pain, and could exert no rudder control. By his high personal courage, superior flying ability in the face of great difficulty, and devotion to duty beyond the normal call, Major Freligh reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force. Home of record: Angola, Indiana.
Headquarters, Eighth U.S. Army
General Orders No. 910 - October 5, 1953
The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major (Infantry) Billy E. Fritts (ASN: 0-39276), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with an Infantry Battalion of the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Major Fritts distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sokkogae, Korea, on the afternoon of 11 July 1953. On that date, Major Fritts voluntarily elected to remain with a battalion which was relieving his unit in defense of an outpost. Recognizing the need for accurate artillery fire on the attacking enemy, Major Fritts proceeded through an intense barrage to an exposed observation post. While he was calling in effective fire on the hostile forces, his bunker was subjected to heavy shelling by a large caliber enemy gun. It was apparent that destruction of the bunker was inevitable, but Major Fritts, although knocked from his feet several times, continued to direct deadly fire into the ranks of the attacking force. A direct hit finally destroyed the bunker and Major Fritts was killed instantly. Through his courageous and completely selfless actions, Major Fritts had inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and contributed materially to the successful evacuation of the position and the saving of many lives.