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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Technical Sergeant] Walter A. Young (ASN: 2006435), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 101st Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 1 December 1944. On that date, Lieutenant Young skillfully led his platoon against a strong enemy position near Sarre-Union, France, inspiring his men by his bold, fearless example. The platoon closed with the enemy in hand-to-hand combat and drove them from their positions, inflicting heavy casualties. The Germans counterattacked but Lieutenant Young drove them back with fire from a captured heavy machine gun. He then quickly organized his platoon into defensive positions and held his objective. The skill and daring displayed by Second Lieutenant Young distinguished him as an outstanding soldier. His fearless determination and courageous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 26th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.