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 Camillus J. Paolini (ASN: 33313568), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. When his Company Commander was seriously injured by an exploding mine, Private First Class Paolini, observing that there were no medical personnel in the vicinity, entered the mine field and went to the officer’s assistance. Despite increasing enemy small arms fire, he continued to administer aid. At this time, a heavy enemy artillery barrage began to descend in the immediate area setting off mines all around Private First Class Paolini. As he was preparing to return to his company, a large piece of shrapnel from an artillery shell which landed nearby, hit the Company Commander. Undaunted by this occurrence which nearly took his own life, Private First Class Paolini ministered to this new wound. The gallantry and heroic determination of Private First Class Paolini in administering aid under such hazardous conditions exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    18th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    June 10, 1944

    Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, General Orders No. 37 (July 14, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Camillus J. Paolini (ASN: 33313568), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Normandy, France, on 10 June 1944. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.