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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Private First Class Steve J. Harelis (ASN: 551444), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Mezy, France, 15 July 1918. During the intense enemy artillery shelling in preparation for the German offensive of 15 July 1918, Private Harelis voluntarily made three attempts to bring in a wounded comrade who was exposed to enemy fire before he finally succeeded in getting him to safety.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 15, 1918
    Headquarters, 3d Division, A.E.F., Citation Orders No. 22 (July 8, 1919)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Private First Class Steve J. Harelis (ASN: 551444), United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the World War I Victory Medals awarded him. While serving with Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on 15 July 1918, during the Battle of the Marne, near Mezy, France, with magnificent courage Private First Class Harelis made three attempts to bring back Sergeant Unkauf, who was wounded and exposed to enemy fire, and finally succeeded in accomplishing his purpose. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]