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 (Quartermaster Corps) George DeGraaf, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Quartermaster with Headquarters, I Corps forces, in action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, in the vicinity of Buna, New Guinea. During an attack on the enemy position near Buna Village many leaders of small Infantry units became casualties and the units became disorganized. Colonel DeGraaf, again and again, with total disregard for his own safety, personally led assault platoons forward under heavy fire from enemy snipers, machine guns and mortars. During this attack, Colonel DeGraaf engaged, at close ranges, enemy snipers who were holding up the attack and by his example and intrepid leadership the men were inspired to greater effort. Colonel DeGraaf’s 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, the I Corps, and the United States Army.