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 Private First Class Leslie Brooks Davis (ASN: 20341541), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment (Separate), FIFTH U.S. Army, in action against enemy forces on 23 November 1943. On that date, Private First Class Davis was serving as a member of a patrol protecting the right flank of his platoon during an attack against the enemy on Mount Groce, near Vennfro, Italy, During the assault Private Davis’ platoon was ambushed and came under heavy fire from enemy machine guns. His platoon leader and another man were wounded. Seeing their attempts to reach a safe position, Private Davis advanced and engaged the numerically superior German force with his automatic rifle. He immediately drew fire upon himself, but continued to fire at the enemy until his comrades reached safety. Private First Class Davis’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.