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 Staff Sergeant John Rabreau (ASN: 32526157), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 14 and 15 September 1944, in Belgium. As Staff Sergeant Rabreau was returning to his gun position with a supply of grenades and ammunition, he observed two strong enemy combat patrols making a night attack upon his machine guns protecting the vital locks of the Albert Canal. A heavy firefight ensued and the hostile patrol threatened to envelop both guns. Instantly realizing the danger to his men and the importance of protecting the locks at any cost, Staff Sergeant Rabreau worked his way through intense automatic weapons and small arms fire to reach one of his guns. After shouting fire orders to the half-surrounded crew, he fearlessly crawled within a few yards of the enemy. In full view of the German patrol, he threw one grenade after another into their midst, routing them and forcing them to run into the fire of the machine gun. He then courageously made his way to the second weapon where he directed its devastating fire and repulsed a strong attack against the emplacements. Staff Sergeant Rabreau’s heroic actions and outstanding bravery were instrumental in enabling his machine gun section to hold this key position in the defenses protecting the vital waterway and important locks. His 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, the 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.