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 Private First Class Elmer D. Long (ASN: 20506298), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands on 11 February 1945. During the fighting in Manila, an infantry company was ordered to hold a bridgehead across the Ester de Paco, but as it advanced, it was halted by heavy enemy fire from a two-story house one hundred and fifty yards to the front. Private First Class Long, an acting squad leader, realized that this strong point would have to be captured, and volunteered to enter the house. Leading three other men rapidly across an open field, he reached the structure safely, and, with one of the men, ran around to the rear, saw two enemy soldiers, and shot and killed them. Then forcing their way into the house, the two men started up the stairs. They were immediately fired upon by four of t he enemy armed with a machine gun which, barricaded behind a desk, covered the stairway. Private First Class Long quickly shot and killed and killed one of the enemy, but was seriously wounded by return fire, and died soon afterward. His companion, although wounded, killed the remainder of the enemy. By his outstanding heroism and spectacular example of battlefield leadership, Private First Class Long materially aided in the neutralizing the enemy strong point and enabled his company to continue on its mission against the enemy. Private First Class Long’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.