(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Joseph Sarcona (ASN: 0-1299310), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 103d Infantry Regiment, 43d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Vangunu Islands, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 30 June 1943. Shortly before dawn, Second Lieutenant Sarcona led his platoon against a series of Japanese machine gun nests. His platoon destroyed these one by one, and Second Lieutenant Sarcona was wounded six times as he led his soldiers in the day long engagement. When approached by Medical Aidmen attempting to treat his multiple wounds, Second Lieutenant Sarcona waved them off until twelve hours later, the last enemy machine gun nest assigned to his platoon had fallen. Weak from loss of blood, he then walked 300 yards to a first aid station, where he had to be forcibly evacuated. Second Lieutenant Sarcona’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 43d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.