Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Perry Ottobein Tester, Jr. (ASN: 0-1317703), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 413th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, from 28 to 30 November 1944. When four enemy machine guns opened fire upon his platoon, First Lieutenant Tester, throwing hand grenades and firing his carbine, advanced far forward of his men in an assault which resulted in the complete destruction of the weapons and crews in vicious close-in fighting. While his company withdrew to reorganize for a continuation of the attack, he remained behind, and in the face of intense fire carried a wounded soldier 1,000 yards to an aid station. Leading another assault two days later, First Lieutenant Tester was severely wounded by a shell fragment. Administering medical aid to himself, First Lieutenant Tester, despite his pains, continued to lead his platoon in the attack until he was again hit by artillery fire and mortally wounded. First Lieutenant Tester’s gallant leadership, 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 104th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

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