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 Captain (Corps of Engineers) John Russell Terry, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Company A, 12th Engineer Combat Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 25 November 1944, in Germany. Captain Terry was assigned the mission of bridging a crater in the road which was essential for a scheduled attack. After several attempts had failed, a driver entered the equipment-laden truck and shouted that he would drive it to the site. Although he was under enemy observation and despite intense fire, Captain Terry directed the truck down the road with no protection for himself. Forced on several occasion to leap into ditches because of increased enemy artillery fire, he continued to guide the truck to the crater 100 yards in front of the Infantry line. After assisting in unloading the span of bridging, Captain Terry returned and guided a second truck over the same dangerous route. Although he was twice wounded by rifle fire during the second trip, he refused medical attention until the bridge was erected. Captain Terry’s heroic action permitted the attack to be launched on time and contributed greatly to the gain of much valuable ground. His gallant leadership, 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 8th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.