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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Walter Palmer Taylor, Jr. (ASN: 20101729), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. On that date, Second Lieutenant Taylor landed with his boat section near Vierville-sur-Mer, France, and led his men on to their initial objective through enemy machine-gun, artillery, and mortar fire. After being joined by another section, Second Lieutenant Taylor and his group headed for the predetermined battalion rendezvous area. In this move, one of his men was wounded. Disregarding his own personal safety and in the face of enemy fire, Second Lieutenant Taylor moved to aid the wounded man. In so doing his weapon was shot from his hand, but he courageously proceeded with his task and evacuated the wounded man to safety. During the following days, Second Lieutenant Taylor displayed inspiring leadership and outstanding courage as he skillfully led his men in numerous advances on enemy positions. At one time he led the spearhead of a battalion attack across a river and up a heavily-fortified, enemy-held hill. On 13 June 1944, Second Lieutenant Taylor was wounded, but his display of skillful, courageous leadership contributed immeasurably to the success of his unit and was a source of inspiration to his men. Second Lieutenant Taylor’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.