Henry F. Rouse

Distinguished Service Cross

(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: First Lieutenant (Infantry) Harry F. G. Rouse, United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces on 11 November 1943, near Venafro, Italy. First Lieutenant Rouse cleared mines from the route of advance under intense enemy fire. He then led his two men through machine gun, sniper, and artillery fire to silence an enemy machine gun holding up the advance. First Lieutenant Rouse's intrepid actions, 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, his unit, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, Fifth U.S. Army, General Orders No. 49 (1944)

Action Date: 11-Nov-43

Service: Army

Rank: First Lieutenant

Regiment: 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment

 

25 Mar 1944 - HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY, A.P.O. #464, U.S. Army, GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 49, Section I, Awards of Distinguished Service Cross

Under the provisions of Army Regulations 600-45, as amended, Distinguished Service Cross is awarded to the following named officer:

HENRY F. G. ROUSE, (0405512), First Lieutenant, Infantry, United States Army.  For extraordinary heroism in action, on 11 November 1943, near Venafro, Italy.  During an attack against a heavily fortified enemy position on Mt. Croce, First Lieutenant ROUSE, although not a member of the attacking echelon, volunteered to precede his company, undertaking the perilous job of clearing mines from the route of advance.  He advanced forward with two enlisted men and successfully accomplished his dangerous mission despite intense enemy machine gun and artillery fire.  His action enabled his company to continue the attack.  Under continual fire, First Lieutenant ROUSE and his assistants then advanced to the top of Mt. Croce, where they observed an enemy machine gun holding up the advance of the main body.  He led the two men through machine gun, sniper and artillery fire and assaulted the enemy position, killing the crew and destroying the gun.  While attempting to neutralize a second machine gun which had been firing nearby, First Lieutenant ROUSE was seriously wounded.  His courageous actions won profound admiration from the members of his company and reflect the finest traditions of the Armed Forces.  Entered military service from New York, New York.