Memorial

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Pfc Srecko Radich and his family came to the United States in 1927 and first lived in Manhattan, New York City.

He enlisted on 12 May 1944 at Fort Dix, New York. He joined his unit from a Replacement Depot on 30 November 1944 and was promoted to Private First Class on 1 January 1945.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously for his action on the day of his death. The citation reads in part: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at the Roer River in Germany, on 23 February 1945. During the assault across the Roer River, enemy machine gun fire directed against the leading elements endangered the life of a soldier, too wounded to move from his exposed position. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Private First Class Radich ran to the wounded soldier and as he stooped to pick him up, was hit by tracer fire. Even though mortally wounded, Private First Class Radich carried his comrade to a covered position and fell dead. Private First Class Radich’s extraordinary heroism, 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 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

A personal story about Pfc Srecko F. Radich can be found in the book "The Last Roll Call: The 29th Infantry Division Victorious, 1945" by Joseph Balkoski, on pages 87-88 - Private Radich ran to the wounded soldier.