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 Walter Anthony Galary (ASN: 31062665), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Faicchio, Italy, on 14 October 1943. During a strong enemy counterattack, the gunner of a heavy machinegun crew was killed and the gun corporal and assistant gunner were seriously wounded. The continued inaction of the weapon threatened the company’s entire defense. Private First Class Galary, unmindful of the danger, immediately ran forward to the gun position, and, unassisted, put the gun into operation. While under continuous small arms and artillery fire he poured a devastating stream of bullets at the advancing enemy. His fire drew attention to his position, and a concentration of enemy artillery and mortar fire dropped around him. He was ordered to withdraw. Abandoning the position, he carried the gun with him, set it up in a new location and resumed fire. Private First Class Galary’s determined and courageous performance was a vital factor in holding the defense lines intact and in repulsing the enemy counterattack. Private First Class Galary’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.