STAFF SERGEANT HARRY J SPECHT, Infantry, while serving with the Army of the United States, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations in Germany on 9 April 1945. Taking defensive positions in a house situated alongside a strategic road junction, Sergeant Specht and his nine men withstood the pounding of enemy 88mm and machine gun fire of counterattacking tanks and infantry. From close range Sergeant Specht fired one round from a bazooka, striking the lead tank in the rear setting it afire. The oncoming infantry were met by intense fire from his BAR. Enemy panzerfaust fire blew in the door bringing him face to face with an enemy soldier. Both opened fire and the enemy soldier fell to his death. Then, with rifle fire and carbine, Sergeant Specht accounted for six enemy soldiers contributing greatly in repelling the counterattack. The extraordinary heroism and courageous action of Sergeant Specht reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Mr. Specht joined the L.O.V. in 1987 and resided in Pennsylvania.