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 Captain (Field Artillery) John Travis Kershner (ASN: 0-360315), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commander of a Field Artillery Battery, 131st Field Artillery Battalion, 31st Infantry Division, attached to a group of Combat Engineers in action against enemy forces in Italy, on 12 September 1943, during a mission of filling a breech in the front lines between American and British troops. An enemy counter-attack supported by artillery and tanks was driving at our front through flat plains occupied by this force. No high ground was available and observation was poor. Captain Kershner, without regard to his own safety, exposed himself constantly to enemy machine guns and sniper fire for three hours in order to occupy a position from which to adjust battery fire on the enemy. During this heroic action he was killed by an enemy sniper. By his self-sacrificing determination to remain in a position where he could observe, although under fire, he saved many lives and contributed materially to repelling the enemy counter-attack. Captain Kershner’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.