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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 Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Donald Clarke Mills (ASN: 0-1178898), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy from 27 March 1945 to 28 March 1945, in Germany. First Lieutenant Mills and his assistant observer unhesitatingly exposed themselves to heavy enemy fire to occupy an observation post in a building. Although shell fragments flew dangerously close, First Lieutenant Mills and his companion calmly remained at their post and directed artillery fire which eventually silenced the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Mills, 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.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery)

    Batallion:

    230th Field Artillery Battalion

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 22, 1944
    Headquarters, NINTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 81 (March 18, 1945)

    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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Donald Clarke Mills (ASN: 0-1178898), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 22 November 1944. On that date, in Germany, Lieutenant Mills, as a forward artillery observer, led his party into an enemy-held down and established his observation post on the third floor of a building. When his position was observed by the enemy, he was subjected to heavy tank and mortar fire and was painfully wounded. Ordering the other members of his party to a lower floor, Lieutenant Mills continued directing fire upon the enemy, eventually calling for fire so close to his own position that his observation post was hit by friendly fire. Second Lieutenant Mills’ 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.