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 Staff Sergeant Lawrence W. Gunderson (ASN: 37294748), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 July 1944, in France. Staff Sergeant Gunderson’s company was pinned down by heavy enemy fire from machine guns and an anti-tank gun. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Staff Sergeant Gunderson, armed only with a rifle and several grenades, skillfully maneuvered within close range of the machine gun and, exposing himself to observed fire from the gun, single-handedly wiped out the entire crew with grenades. Fearless and aggressive, he then attacked the crew of the anti-tank gun at point blank range. Though subject to direct small arms fire and receiving wounds in this encounter that proved fatal, his attack was so fierce that all members of the German anti-tank gun crew were killed or wounded. As a result of his action, the company was enabled to continue its advance. The extraordinary heroism and dauntless courage displayed by Staff Sergeant Gunderson in single-handedly destroying an enemy machine gun nest and an anti-tank gun crew set an inspiring example to his entire company. His extraordinary heroism, 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, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.