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 William C. Howington (ASN: 34091047), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 161st Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 August 1943, in the vicinity of New Georgia, Solomon Islands. Private First Class Howington was serving as a runner when his company was driving toward the Munda Airfield, and was delayed when an enemy 75-mm. gun blocked the advance. Advancing with his commanding officer, they reached the enemy gun position without being seen by the enemy. Private First Class Howington instantly jumped into the pit and caught the Japanese gun crew of seven men, who were in an adjoining dugout, by surprise. They reached for their weapons, but Private First Class Howington stepped into the doorway and swept one side of the dugout with rifle fire. He then reloaded, jumped across the doorway, and fired a second clip of ammunition along the other side, killing all seven enemy soldiers. Private First Class Howington’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 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.