Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Staff Sergeant Gene Porter Daugherty (ASN: 37616042), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Kintzheim, France, on 30 November 1944. During an attack against a strongly defended enemy position, Sergeant Daugherty’s platoon was subjected to intense machine gun fire which wounded several of his men. Realizing the necessity of quickly eliminating this obstacle, Sergeant Daugherty fearlessly dashed through withering enemy fire toward the machine gun and hurled three grenades into the position, completely destroying the weapon and forcing its crew to withdraw in confusion. As a result of his extraordinary heroism and selfless devotion to duty, his company was enabled to successful seize its objective. Staff Sergeant Daugherty’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 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    142d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    36th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    June 5, 1944

    Headquarters, 36th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 399 (1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Gene Porter Daugherty (ASN: 37616042), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy, on 5 June 1944. Private Daugherty was automatic rifleman with the 1st platoon Company L, as it moved by motor convoy toward a strategic city. An enemy force attack engaged the platoon in a fire fight. From his covered position, Private Daugherty saw an enemy machine gun crew going into action. Realizing the gravity of the threat and the casualties it would cause, he left his place of safety and advanced headlong into the machine gun fire, answering with deadly blasts from his rife. By his courageous action he destroyed the gun crew and materially aided his platoon to defeat the enemy, killing 12, wounding 13 and capturing 15. Private Daugherty’s 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.