Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 4, 1943

    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 27 (October 5, 1943)

    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 Captain (Infantry) Emil Saleem Bitar (ASN: 0-326537), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at San Fratello, Sicily, on 4 August 1943. Captain Bitar lead his company in an attack against a strong enemy hill position held by an estimated force of battalion strength. At about 350 yards from the enemy, the company came under an intense artillery barrage, at the same time being in a minefield, suffering many casualties. Captain Bitar was himself seriously wounded, rendering his left arm useless, but in spite of his wounds, he rallied his company and led his remaining troops forward through the mine field to within 150 yards of the enemy position where he was mortally wounded. Inspired by his heroic leadership, his company continued on to destroy the enemy strongpoint. Captain Bitar’s outstanding leadership, 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, the 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.