Sponsored by:

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 Silver Star to Private First Class John F. Mansell (ASN: 33676400), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Manila, Philippine Islands, during World War II. When an infantry company was trapped by enemy fire and burning buildings in Manila on 5 February 1945, many casualties resulted as the Japanese controlled all the avenues of escape with machine gun, rifle, and mortar fire. Private Mansell, braving the enemy fire and the conflagration as it closed in on the company, voluntarily assisted in bringing to safety four of his wounded comrades as he made trip after trip into the blazing inferno. His courageous actions were in the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    148th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    37th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 11, 1945
    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Orders No. 125 (May 31, 1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 John F. Mansell (ASN: 33676400), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 11 February 1945. Private First Class Mansell’s 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 and the United States Army.