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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant Edward Ruscak (ASN: 11014760), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 33d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily in July 1943. When enemy tanks threatened to break through our front liens to supply points near the beach, Sergeant Ruscak, displaying coolness and resourcefulness under heavy enemy fire, moved his howitzer from a position of comparative safety to one under heavy enemy fire and directed the firing of his piece at point-blank range against the advancing tanks. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant [then Technician Fifth Grade]

    Batallion:

    33d Field Artillery Battalion

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    February 22, 1943
    Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, General Orders No. 15 (April 7, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Technician Fifth Grade] Edward Ruscak (ASN: 11014760), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 33d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, on 22 February 1943. When enemy infantry overran his battery position, Sergeant Ruscak, under intense enemy mortar and small arms fire, continued firing his piece until the arrival of supporting infantry. Although his section was surrounded and escape appeared impossible, his heavy and accurate counterfire prevented the enemy from consolidating their gains. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.