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 Staff Sergeant William A. Flesch (ASN: 36561683), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 320th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 5 March 1945. When the advanced platoon was halted by enemy machine gun fire while crossing an open field, Sergeant Flesch, completely disregarding personal danger, dashed to a vantage point, killed an enemy gunner and wounded the other member of the crew. During this action, Sergeant Flesch’s platoon continued to advance into an enemy town. Sensing that the platoon was surrounded, Sergeant Flesch ran a quarter-of-a-mile to the rear to contact friendly tanks. Dismounted, he led the tanks into the town in support of the riflemen, whereupon enemy resistance became disorganized. Staff Sergeant Flesch’s extraordinary heroism, 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 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.