Distingushed Service Cross citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Elmer G. Shindle (33494073), Technician Fourth Grade, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. When the craft in which Technical Fourth Grade Shindle was coming ashore in the initial assault on the coast of France received a direct hit from an enemy shell, it quickly sank. Men were forced to abandon ship under heavy enemy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire in water too deep to wade. Technician Fourth Grade Shindle, as he swam shore, aided others to reach the beach. Without regard for his own safety and despite the intense enemy fire, Technician Fourth Grade Shindle made numerous trips across the beach to the water to rescue many wounded and drowning soldiers and took them to the most available cover on the beach where he treated their wounds. The gallantry and personal bravery displayed by Technician Fourth Grade Shindle 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.

Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944)