Career
Dutko joined the Army from Riverside Township, New Jersey in February 1941, and by May 23, 1944 was serving as a private first class in the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. On that day, near Ponte Rotto, Italy, he single-handedly charged three German machine guns and one 88 mm artillery gun. Although wounded twice during his attack, he continued on and successfully destroyed all four positions before succumbing to his wounds.
Dutko, aged 27 at his death, was buried in Beverly National Cemetery, Beverly, New Jersey.
Despite the intense fire of these 4 weapons which were aimed directly at him, Although machinegun bullets kicked up the dirt at his heels, and 88mm. shells exploded within 30 yards of him, Although the second machinegun wounded him, knocking him to the ground, Wheeling on the machinegun which had wounded him, The third German machinegun fired on.