Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Technical Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    34th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 22, 1944

    Headquarters, U.S. Forces-Pacific, General Orders No. 99 (August 8, 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 Technical Sergeant Michael Szymko (ASN: 32241282), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on Kilay Ridge, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 22 November 1944. Sergeant Szymko was serving in a platoon which, after thirty-two days of continuous combat, was successfully holding a strategic forward position. In the afternoon, when the enemy launched a heavy attack, Sergeant Szymko, discovering that his platoon was running short of grenades, twice returned under concentrated enemy fire to the Command Post to replenish its dwindling supply. He returned from the second trip to find that his platoon leader and platoon sergeant had been wounded and evacuated. Assuming command of what now consisted of but little more than a squad, the need for immediate consolidation was apparent, and Sergeant Szymko, with utter disregard for his personal safety, brilliantly effected the reorganization by crawling from position to position, inspiring his men to hold the ridge at all costs. Towards twilight, the Japanese launched a terrific barrage of grenades and mortar fire which was soon followed by a Banzai charge. Sergeant Szymko killed three Japanese soldiers who threatened his position but was wounded in the head himself. Suddenly, a Japanese officer, who was leading the attack, charged Sergeant Szymko, fanatically wielding his saber. The Sergeant, nearly blinded by blood which covered his face, fought furiously, parrying each stroke of the saber, and finally killed the officer with the officer’s sword. The attack force, frustrated by the loss of their leader, hastily retreated. Sergeant Szymko’s heroic action, mature judgment, and brilliant leadership enabled his platoon to hold an important position at great odds. Technical Sergeant Szymko’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.