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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Albert Leon Kessler, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 65th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 23 November 1944. On that date, Lieutenant Kessler demonstrated extraordinary courage as a Forward Observer for an eight-inch howitzer battalion. Throughout the night, in order to destroy enemy positions, Lieutenant Kessler called for and adjusted fire which landed near his position which was well within the known safety limits from the center of impact. Although his observation post was within one hundred yards of the enemy lines, his persistent devotion to duty and total disregard for personal safety was largely responsible for the destruction of the heavily defended town. The extraordinary heroism and courageous actions of Lieutenant Kessler reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.