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 Private First Class Joe P. Gomez, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 3d Ranger Infantry Battalion (Separate), in action against enemy forces near San Pietro, Italy, on 30 November 1943. While on a reconnaissance mission, Private First Class Gomez’ platoon encountered a strong enemy force. The Infantry Ranger platoon was pinned down behind a stone wall by enemy small arms and automatic fire. Private First Class Gomez and the platoon’s second scout hurdled the wall and advanced toward the enemy. Although his companion was killed in this action, Private First Class Gomez continued to fire and accounted for three German dead and four wounded. While the attention of the enemy was thus diverted, the remainder of the platoon concentrated its fire and routed the Germans. Private First Class Gomez’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 and the United States Army.