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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major] Edward Smith Hamilton (ASN: 0-22165), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 September 1944, in the vicinity of Avril, France. During a fierce attack by Germany infantry, while his battalion was organizing its position on an exposed hill, Colonel Hamilton, with utter disregard for his safety, supervised in person, the deployment of anti-tank guns to open positions atop the hill, where he personally directed the fire of one piece. By his valorous example and vigorous action, Colonel Hamilton inspired his battalion to retrieve a deteriorating position and press forward in its mission toward the Moselle River. Lieutenant Colonel Hamilton’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 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.