James A. Rapino
Corporal, U.S. Army

On 19 September 1944, Corporal James A. Rapino was serving with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, Third U.S. Army.

On that day, CPL Rapino’s unit was in action against German forces while taking part in the 3rd Army's dash across France during the Siegfried Line Campaign. CPL Rapino’s courageous actions and extraordinary heroism that day earned him the U.S. Army's second highest award for valor, the Distinguished Service Cross.

On 27 September 1944, the 3rd Division was maintaining an aggressive defense of positions west of the Seille River in France when CPL Rapino was Killed in Action.

Medals, Awards and Badges

Distinguished Service Cross
Purple Heart
Army Good Conduct Medal
American Campaign Medal
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Stars
World War II Victory Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge

Distinguished Service Cross Citation (Synopsis)

Corporal James A. Rapino (ASN: 33283408), United States Army, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 19 September 1944. Corporal Rapino's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 80th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 21 (1945)

Burial

Corporal James A. Rapino is buried at the Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial in Saint-Avold, Departement de la Moselle, Lorraine, France in Plot K, Row 36, Grave 24.

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/56659849/james-a-rapino