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 Staff Sergeant Herman Elias Stein (ASN: 32356794), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Ranger Battalion, Provisional Ranger Group (Separate), in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 7 December 1944. After bitter fighting near Bergstein, Germany, Sergeant Stein reorganized the men of his company and prepared for an enemy counterattack. Conspicuously venturing out on a lone patrol he discovered the enemy in the process of regrouping, killed or wounded fourteen Germans with his BAR, and returned to his comrades. When heavy shelling indicated the counterattack was imminent he took up a position 100 yards in advance of his group and heroically charged the attacking Germans in a yard-by-yard firefight until he was forced back to his prepared position. Sergeant Stein’s fearless actions so inspired his men that they repulsed a numerically superior force. His 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.

Awards Received