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 Lee Wetherholt, Jr. (ASN: 35636953), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 30 June 1944. On that date, Private First Class Wetherholt’s company attacked a strongly fortified hill but was halted 200 yards from the top by enemy mortar and machine gun fire which caused many casualties. He volunteered to neutralize the demoralizing fire. Crawling up to the first enemy position, through the devastating hail of bullets and shell fragments, he quickly rose and heaved two grenades, killing all the crew. On he went to the next emplacement and the next. So swiftly did he operate, so silent was his approach, so aggressive and determined was his purpose and so accurate his aim that those of the enemy who were not killed or wounded were routed from their cover and captured. By his heroic action in destroying one machinegun nest, disabling the crew of another and being instrumental in the capture of 73 prisoners, he demonstrated outstanding courage. Private First Class Wetherholt’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 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.