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 Harold J. Speer (ASN: 33710038), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 115th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 27 November 1944. Private First Class Speer had advanced with his company until it became pinned down by intense enemy machine-gun fire. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Private First Class Speer courageously crawled forward until he was within 25 yards of the enemy position. Then, with fixed bayonet, he hurled a hand grenade and charged. Though several shots were fired at him, he reached the enemy gun emplacement, shot the gunner, pulled the machine-gun from its position, and with bayonet and rifle killed the four remaining men of the crew. This voluntary act permitted the attack to continue. Private First Class Speer’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 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.