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 Sergeant Norris Carl Machost (ASN: 18049300), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 96th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 24 October 1944. The company of which Sergeant Machost was a member was halted by well-concealed and powerful enemy fire, and an order for redeployment was given. As the withdrawal for regrouping began, the Japanese counterattacked with a superior force, enveloping both flanks. Sergeant Machost, an automatic rifleman, heroically stood his ground and poured fire into the onrushing enemy with a devastating effect, making possible the evacuation of his wounded platoon leader and other injured soldiers. When the line had withdrawn seventy-five yards to protect the redeployment of another company, Sergeant Machost voluntarily remained in a completely exposed position, firing constantly at the oncoming enemy. So accurate and sustained was his fire that it inflicted many Japanese casualties and hurled back the attack. Throughout the entire action the courage and calmness of Sergeant Machost wee a source of great inspiration to his comrades. Sergeant Machost’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.