The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Herman J. Cordes (ASN: 39528950), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 June 1944, in France. A patrol of which Private Cordes was a member, while attempting to determine whether or not forces observed in a nearby town were friendly, was suddenly brought under intense machine gun, mortar and artillery fire. Then, without hesitation and with total disregard for his own safety, Private Cordes moved a light machine gun to an exposed position on the road and opened fire on the enemy. Although the enemy placed their intense fire on Private Cordes, he continued to fire and hold his ground until the patrol had safely withdrawn. The courage, initiative and determination displayed by Private Cordes in the face of great danger exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.