Headquarters, FIRST U.S. Army, General Orders No. 63 (April 21, 1945)
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 First Lieutenant (Cavalry) Edgar William Grotelueschen, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with 4th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized), in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 27 November 1944. Observing an enemy machine gun nest 150 yards to his front, Captain Grotelueschen alone stormed the hostile position. Grasping the enemy weapon in his hands, he hurled it from the emplacement and forced the surrender of a crew member. As a second German attempted to escape, Captain Grotelueschen killed him with accurate small arms fire. By his daring and complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain Grotelueschen prevented casualties to his men, and obtained the identification of a German division previously unknown to be operating in this sector. First Lieutenant Grotelueschen’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.