Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Private

Unit:

Company B, 53rd Armored Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division U.S. Army (Company B, 53rd Armored Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division U.S. Army)

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William H. Whitson (35159792), Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving the 53rd Armored Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 30 July 1944, in the vicinity of Avranches, France.

In the early morning mist enemy vehicles attempting to enter and withdraw through Avranches were observed by Private Whitson, machine gunner occupying a position well forward, who immediately placed them under direct fire. Despite the concentrated counter-fire, Private Whitson steadfastly stayed with his gun and keeping the approaching vehicles under heavy accurate fire he put out of action twenty-five light enemy vehicles, killed fifty of the enemy soldiers, and demoralized the remainder of the enemy party. As a result of this devastating fire, more than five hundred Germans surrendered. With unswerving tenacity Private Whitson remained at his post and kept firing until he was killed at his gun. Private Whitson's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Armored Division, and the United States Army.

Posthumously awarded.

Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 65 (September 26, 1944).