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 Sergeant [then Corporal] George W. Mirich (ASN: 39303170), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 32d Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 19 May 1943. When his battalion was advancing on Japanese-held Chichagof Pass, Attu, Aleutian Islands, Territory of Alaska, Sergeant Mirich, a Company Clerk, at his own request was acting as leader of a rifle squad. His company met intense fire from commanding enemy positions above the line of attack, and progress was slowed. Alone and on his own initiative, Corporal Mirich rapidly moved around the flank and climbed a steep, precipitous incline to reach the Japanese entrenchments. With rifle fire and grenades he cleaned out five enemy foxholes. His gun then jammed. He then used his bayonet until it was broken. Sergeant Mirich, without hesitation continued the attack, using only his rifle butt. His infinite courage and skill in executing the attack and liquidation of the enemy strong point enabled his platoon to advance and mop up surrounding enemy positions. Sergeant Mirich’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, the 7th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.