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 John M. Hall, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Allex, France, on 28 August 1944. While leading his squad, under cover of darkness, in an attack on an enemy roadblock, Staff Sergeant Hall advanced toward a house which was occupied by enemy troops. As the squad approached the house, it was subjected to intense fire from two machine guns located within the building. Immediately dispersing his squad, Staff Sergeant Hall worked around to the right flank and moved to the rear of the house. Keeping close to the wall, he crept to the front of the building and, signaling his men to cease firing, hurled three grenades through a window, destroying three enemy gunners and causing the remainder to withdraw in confusion. By his courageous leadership and extraordinary heroism, Staff Sergeant Hall eliminated a strong enemy roadblock and enabled his battalion to seize its objective. Staff Sergeant Hall’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.