AWARDS AND CITATIONS

	Distinguished Service Cross

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Awarded for actions during the World War II

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 Staff Sergeant Joseph P. Perehinec (ASN: 13020925), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 June 1944, in France.

While leading his platoon in the vicinity of St. Sauveur le Vicompte, Staff Sergeant Perehinec encountered devastating fire from a strong enemy force supported by five machine guns, forcing his men to the ground. A quick observation of the terrain revealed a shallow ditch on the right of his platoon. Realizing that his men were unable to reach the ditch exposed to the grazing machine gun fire, Staff Sergeant Perehinec, with utter disregard for his own safety, leaped to his feet and courageously attempted to overrun the enemy position by throwing hand grenades and using his bayonet. Repeatedly hit by bursts of machine gun fire, he heroically continued his assault, drawing the intense enemy fire away from his comrades. Staff Sergeant Perehinec was killed in this action.

His platoon safely reached the ditch and attacked the enemy from the flank, inflicting numerous casualties and forcing them to withdraw. By his unflinching devotion to duty, courage and extreme valor, Staff Sergeant Perehinec exemplified the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States reflecting great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

General Orders: Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 86 (November 25, 1944)

Action Date: 16-Jun-44

Service: Army

Rank: Staff Sergeant

Regiment: 47^th Infantry Regiment

Division: 9^th Infantry Division