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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Gordon Madison Clarkson (ASN: 0-21222), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 28 January 1944, in the landings and subsequent battle for Saidor, New Guinea. While on reconnaissance, Colonel Clarkson went to the aid of a patrol which was attempting to cross a dangerously swift river under heavy enemy fire. Despite heavy machine gun fire he went into the river with several men and formed a human chain enabling the patrol to reach the opposite bank. During the action he was mortally wounded but he ordered the men to leave him and seek cover. His heroic sacrifice without regard for his personal safety was an inspiration to his troops. Lieutenant Colonel Clarkson’s outstanding 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 and the United States Army.