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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Roy Edward Gehrke (ASN: 0-1177405), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 400th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 9th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 and 17 September 1944, in Germany. During establishment of a bridgehead near Wallendorf, a rifle battalion encountered stiff enemy resistance in the form of artillery, infantry and armored troops. Second Lieutenant Gehrke, with complete disregard for his own safety, proceeded through an area covered by heavy artillery and machine gun fire to reach a point which afforded a commanding view of the terrain. For a period of thirty-six hours, while exposed to withering artillery, machine gun, and rifle fire, he courageously remained at his post. Adjusting extremely accurate and volumous fire, he completely annihilated a company of enemy tanks, and forced the withdrawal of hostile artillery from prepared positions. As the battle progressed, enemy mortars probed incessantly for his location. Second Lieutenant Gehrke remained in his hazardous position and brought close fire support to an attacking infantry battalion. He succeeded in turning back a hostile counter attack before he was mortally wounded. By his self-sacrificing devotion to duty, determination, and outstanding personal courage, Second Lieutenant Gehrke exemplified the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.