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 Private William H. Whitson (ASN: 35159792), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving the 10th Armored Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Avranches, France, on 30 July 1944. In the early morning mist enemy vehicles attempting to enter and withdraw through Avranches were observed by Private Whitson, machine gunner occupying a position well forward, who immediately placed them under direct fire. Despite the concentrated counter-fire, Private Whitson steadfastly stayed with his gun and keeping the approaching vehicles under heavy accurate fire he put out of action twenty-five light enemy vehicles, killed fifty of the enemy soldiers, and demoralized the remainder of the enemy party. As a result of this devastating fire, more than five hundred Germans surrendered. With unswerving tenacity Private Whitson remained at his post and kept firing until he was killed at his gun. Private Whitson’s 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 4th Armored Division, and the United States Army.