Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    27th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 5, 1943

    Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, General Orders No. 340 (1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class William N. Rowlinson (ASN: 11024103), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 5 August 1943. When his Infantry Company was pinned down by Japanese fire at New Georgia, Private First Class Rowlinson deployed with other members of his squad, attempting to form a skirmish line. Advancing close to enemy defenses, Private First Class Rowlinson located and fired upon several key positions, thereby drawing the bulk of hostile fire. Although severely wounded and weakened from loss of blood, he refused treatment, preferring to hold out until reinforcements arrived. The intensity and superiority of his fire kept the Japanese so occupied that they were unable to resist a flank attack. Shortly before enemy resistance ceased, Private First Class Rowlinson was killed by a burst of machine gun fire. Private First Class Rowlinson’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.