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 Colonel Leon Henri Lassus, Army of France, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in France, in 1944. Colonel Lassus commanded the Divisional Artillery of the 2d Division D’Infanterie Marocaine, French Army, throughout the operations that culminated in the liberation of the French Alps. At all times, and in the most hazardous conditions, Colonel Lassus gave evidence of the highest qualities of personal courage and professional skill, maintaining perfect coordination between the various artillery groups engaged. The gallant leadership and unselfish devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Lassus reflect highest credit upon himself and the Allied Forces.