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) Charles Henry Gesner (ASN: 0-1324161), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 February 1945, near Hontheim, Germany. Lieutenant Gesner led his platoon through a hail of machine gun and rifle fire in an assault against heavily defended enemy positions. As he was preparing to make the final assault, he discovered that all ammunition had been expended. He then hurled two hand grenades into the enemy dugout and immediately closed with the occupants. Swinging his carbine as a club, he killed two Germans and captured four others. Lieutenant Gesner’s fearless and aggressive actions so demoralized the enemy that a prompt overrunning of the entire objective was effected. Second Lieutenant Gesner’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and superb leadership exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.