Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    26th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 23, 1943

    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 15 (August 12, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Joseph Gorlesky (ASN: 12009706), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Tunisia, on 23 April 1943. A thirty man enemy patrol infiltrated the battalion position and cut communications to the battalion observation post. Sergeant Gorlesky, with three men, started to check the wire and after moving approximately 600 yards they were ambushed by the enemy patrol. Sergeant Gorlesky and two of his men were severely wounded and the third killed. The enemy patrol leader ordered in plain English: “Give up you crazy Americans.” Sergeant Gorlesky, although severely wounded and outnumbered ten-to-one, ordered his men to fire on the enemy. His patrol kept up a terrific fire and Sergeant Gorlesky advanced toward the enemy, alternately firing and throwing hand grenades until the enemy fled. Sergeant Gorlesky fell mortally wounded under circumstances indicating that he had struggled with and disarmed two of the enemy. His heroic action prevented serious damage and casualties to the battalion. His heroic example was an inspiration to the men of his battalion. Sergeant Gorlesky’s extraordinary heroism, 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 and the United States Army.