The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Burk Burnett Hunt (ASN: 20806023), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Mignano, Italy, on 3 December 1943. During an attack against a firmly entrenched enemy occupying a hill position, Sergeant Hunt’s infantry squad became pinned down by heavy enemy machine gun fire. Realizing the danger confronting his squad, Sergeant Hunt skillfully moved forward with little cover to the concealed enemy machine gun nest and single-handedly destroyed the emplacement with hand grenades. Suddenly, German mortar fire was brought to bear on his exposed position, killing him instantly. His magnificent and valorous action, the annihilation of his squad was undoubtedly prevented, and his platoon was able to advance and attain its objective. Sergeant Hunt’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.