Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    116th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    29th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    June 6, 1944

    Headquarters, FIRST U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944)

    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 (Infantry) Archibald Alexander Sproul (ASN: 0-406823), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as S-1 (Personnel Officer) with Headquarters Company, 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. At a time when his battalion was pinned down on the beach due to the heavy enemy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire, Captain Sproul, with complete disregard for his own safety, exposed himself on numerous occasions in encouraging and organizing the hard-pressed troops. His fearlessness in leading the men across the fire-swept beach materially contributed in converting the disorganized troops into a strong attacking force. Captain Sproul’s gallant leadership, 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 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.