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 First Class Samuel B. Kite (ASN: 18096930), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 30 October 1944, at Leyte, Philippine Islands. While attacking enemy positions with his squad, Private First Class Kite, an automatic rifleman, was hit by rifle fire in both legs and knocked from his weapon by the impact. As the squad withdrew to reorganize for a second attack, he retrieved his weapon, reloaded it and worked his way forward to an exposed firing position. Refusing to withdraw with his squad, he told them: “I can’t make it. Get back yourselves and I’ll cover you.” As he held the position under dover of his fire, the squad was able to reassemble without further losses. Through his outstanding heroism and indomitable spirit in the face of death, Private First Class Kite was instrumental in saving the lives of his comrades and in aiding them to renew their attack. His 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 and the United States Army.