Rank Private First Class Battles and wars World War II Service/branch United States Army | Battles/wars World War II Allegiance United States of America | |
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Awards Distinguished Service Cross Award Distinguished Service Cross | ||
Private First Class Luis F. Castro born in Orocovis, Puerto Rico was assigned to the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division in the U.S. Army. PFC. Luis L. Castro was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in World War II.
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World War II
Castro's platoon was about to be overrun by enemy German forces, when he decided to stay in the rear flank and cover his men's retreat by providing firepower killing 15 of the enemy in the process.
Distinguished Service Cross Citation
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Luis F. Castro (32873352), Private First Class, U.S. 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 10 December 1944, in Germany. Private First Class Castro occupied a position alone on the right flank of an intricate enemy trench system captured by his company. As two platoons of Germans advanced along the trench toward him, Private First Class Castro, fully aware of his small supply of ammunition, withheld his fire. When enemy troops jammed the trench a short distance away, he poured point-blank fire upon them until his ammunition was expended. Ignoring intense small arms fire, he repelled a second attack with hand grenades. As the enemy withdrew, 15 dead were found within 20 feet of his position. Private First Class Castro'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, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army. Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 27 (February 15, 1945)
Awards and decorations
Among PFC Luis F. Castro's awards and decorations are the following: