Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    34th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 28, 1944

    Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 97 (August 7, 1945)

    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 Teddy Szymanski (ASN: 15042706), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Alangalang, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 28 October 1944. During a 500 yard advance against the enemy, Private Szymanski, a runner of Company F, assisted the company commander in directing the assault platoons, warned forward squads of concealed spider holes, and aided in destroying enemy positions. When the left assault platoon encountered resistance from enemy riflemen entrenched in a series of five deep emplacements, Private Szymanski charged forward in the face of small-arms fire at close range, and single-handedly destroyed three of the positions with submachine gun fire and hand grenades. Then, observing an enemy mortar 75 yards to his front, he against rushed forward under rifle and automatic weapons fire, and demolished the position. Through his outstanding heroism in the face of grave danger and at the risk of his life, Private Szymanski proved a deciding factor in his company’s successful advance against the enemy. Private First Class Szymanski’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 24th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.