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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas E. Knode, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. During the first attack on Buna Village, Captain Knode led his platoon with conspicuous bravery. When wounded in the leg, he disregarded the wound and continued to lead his platoon in the attack. When he was again wounded, in the foot, and was unable to go on, he refused to be evacuated until he had given final orders to his platoon. First Lieutenant Knode’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 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.