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 Technical Sergeant Herbert Stanley Latimer (ASN: 6827207), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 44th Armored Infantry Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 14 and 15 November 1944. On 14 November, during an assault against the enemy-held town of Landroff, France, Sergeant Latimer, on his own initiative, assumed command of a leaderless infantry platoon and led it forward in the attack. As he boldly advanced he killed a Germany sniper and the driver and assistant driver of an enemy ammunition truck. He continued to lead his platoon in the fierce action until the town was secured, and during a counter-attack that evening he personally killed two of the enemy and captured five others. During hand-to-hand fighting on the morning of 15 November he killed another of the enemy with his bayonet. Throughout the action Sergeant Latimer was a constant example to his men, inspiring them by his fearless leadership, repeatedly braving enemy fire to give first aid to his comrades. Technical Sergeant Latimer’s conspicuous heroism and courageous 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.