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Pfc Dale J. Peterson enlisted at Fort Douglas, Utah on 26 August 1944.

The citation of the Distinguished Service Cross stated:
"The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Dale J. Peterson Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 April 1945, in Germany. Private First Class Peterson's platoon was forced to take shelter in a large factory by devastating enemy fire from dug in positions 100 yards distant, exposing the platoon to a sudden surprise charge by the strong hostile force. At great personal risk, Private First Class Peterson voluntarily moved across 50 yards of terrain swept by direct fire from a 20-mm. gun, rifles, and machine guns. From his hazardous position, he placed deadly and accurate machine gun fire upon the enemy, enabling members of his platoon to resume the attack. As the platoon charged forward, Private First Class Peterson sprayed fleeing enemy soldiers, killing fifteen, wounding seven, and forcing three to surrender. As he attempted to rejoin his comrades in the attack, he was hit by sniper fire and instantly killed. Private First Class Peterson's bold and courageous actions, 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 30th Infantry Division, and the United States Army."