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 Vernon E. Cassady (ASN: 36642253), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 183d Field Artillery Group, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 15 March 1945. On that date, while on a reconnaissance mission near Michelbach, Germany, Private Cassady was ambushed by a large number of enemy soldiers and the officer for whom he was driving was seriously wounded. As the enemy advanced he fearlessly remained at a position near his vehicle and fired on them with an automatic rifle, pistol and carbine, killing two and capturing one. He then drove the wounded officer to the nearest aid station and warned an approaching column of vehicles of the enemy ambush. Private Cassady’s heroic, aggressive action and indomitable fighting spirit are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.