James Daniel Vittitoe

First Lieutenant, U. S. Army

Distinguished Service Cross

GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, Seventh U.S. Army, General Orders No. 585 (October 6, 1945)
CITATION:
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 First Lieutenant (Cavalry) James D. Vittitoe (ASN: 0-555563), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 83d Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 30 March 1945, in Germany.
Lieutenant Vittitoe, in command of a scout section in the leading battalion of the 3d Armored Division, led his group deep into enemy territory. From dawn until dusk he roared through German towns at great speed, enabling the Division to advance approximately ninety miles in a single day's operation, and to half-encircle the industrial Ruhr and trap over three hundred thousand German troops. In one of many heroic actions during the day, Lieutenant Vittitoe overran two 88-mm. self-propelled guns and, with his machine gun blazing, completely disorganized the crews. He then directed supporting fire power in destroying the guns. Lieutenant Vittitoe's outstanding courage and leadership were of inestimable value to the Allied cause. First Lieutenant Vittitoe'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.