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 Otto K. Stephens (ASN: 20533605), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 2d Ranger Battalion, Provisional Ranger Group (Separate), in action against enemy forces at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, on 6 and 7 June 1944. Private First Class Stephens landed with the initial assault wave on the east coast of France on D-Day under heavy enemy fire. Proceeding across the fire-swept beach, he scaled a 100-foot cliff and secured ropes to the top for other men to use in ascending. Without waiting for the other men to reach the top, Private First Class Stephens proceeded to attack enemy positions located there. Although wounded by sniper fire, he disdained any medical attention, killed the sniper who shot him, and continued to carry on until the following day when he was evacuated for his injuries. Private First Class Stephens’ 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.