(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Sergeant Michael N. Shay, Jr. (ASN: 37237068), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Battery, 73d Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 9th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces in Belgium, on 18 December, 1944. When a company of enemy infantry attacked and surrounded the town of Margaret, Belgium, Sergeant Shay organized a group of men as machine gunners and led them in a spirited defense. When ordered to attempt to escape through enemy lines, he courageously volunteered to remain behind and cover the other men in their withdrawal. Although he was killed in this action, he diverted the attention of the hostile forces long enough to permit his comrades to withdraw safely. Sergeant Shay’s 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, the 9th Armored Division, and the United States Army.