Avoca Youth Awarded DSC
Pfc. Dale Maassen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gustav Maassen of Route 1, Avoca, was presented posthumously the distinguished service cross “for extraordinary heroism in connection with marine corps military operations against an armed enemy.” Pfc. Maassen was with the fourth Raider battalion during the early engagement at Bairoko Harbor of the Solomon island on July 20.
The citation states: “Severely wounded a moment after taking over a machine gun when a member of his squad was fatally injured, Private First Class Maassen stayed at his post knowing that the continued operation of his weapon was essential to the movement of his company. Private Maassen died of the wounds he had ignored in order to deliver well-aimed fire when it was needed most. The outstanding heroism and skill displayed by Private First Class Maassen on this occasion reflect highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”
Source: The Council Bluffs Nonpareil, Council Bluffs, Monday, January 10, 1944, Page 3
Dale Maassen was born Nov. 15, 1921 to Julius and Sena Katherine Anderson Maassen. He died July 20, 1943 and is buried in Manila American Cemetery, Taguig City, Philippines.
Pvt. Maassen served in World War II with the U.S. Marine Corps and was awarded the Purple Heart and Distinguished Service Cross.
Source: ancestry.com
