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 Major (Cavalry) James Calvin Gerhart (ASN: 0-372804), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters, 2d Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against enemy forces at Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 3 February 1945. As Executive Officer of a Cavalry Squadron driving from Guimba to Manila, Major Gerhart accompanied the point of the column through fifteen miles of heavily occupied and strongly defended enemy-held territory. In the face of repeated attacks he pressed the advance through sheer determination. When he arrived at the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in Manila, the enemy opened fire with machine guns, mortars and rifles, and laid an intense barrage over all routes of approach. Without hesitation Major Gerhart scaled the wall of the camp, unfastened the gate from the inside, and enabled his troops to enter the compound. Leading the advance through the yard, he engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat and killed many in the struggle which ensued. Although the entire area was swept by machine guns, rifles and grenades, he continued the advance until his forces has surrounded and occupied the building. Major Gerhart’s outstanding heroism and gallant leadership were vital factors in the liberation of 3,500 civilian internees without loss of life and with few casualties to our own troops. His 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 and the United States Army.