Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    127th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    32d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 24, 1945

    Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 43 (July 13, 1945)

    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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert Wasserman (ASN: 0-1329299), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces along the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 24 April 1945. Second Lieutenant Wasserman’s platoon, in an advance on an enemy hill position, ran into intense cross fire from two heavy machine guns and was forced to take cover. Realizing that the success of the attack depended upon his unit’s continued advance, he moved among his men in full view of the enemy, encouraging them and directing each forward move. Although repeatedly urged by his men to get down, he remained in front of his platoon guiding their perilous advance across the fire-swept area. Struck by an enemy bullet, he waited only long enough to receive first aid, then returned to the head of his platoon. When further advance seemed impossible, despite his wound, he crawled forward through thick brush to a point forty yards from two enemy machine guns in order to direct mortar fire. Although the guns immediately concentrated a hail of fire on his position, he continued to direct friendly fire with calm courage and skill until he suffered a mortal wound. His skilled leadership and bravery in continuing t o lead the attack although wounded was an inspiration to his men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.