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 Corporal John Kotkovetz (ASN: 16068120), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Anti-Tank Company, 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 12 December 1944, in the vicinity of Riquewihr, France. When enemy troops attempted to overrun the 2d Platoon’s defenses, Corporal Kotkovetz, voluntarily exposing himself to heavy enemy machine gun and machine pistol fire, ran across exposed terrain to an abandoned 30 caliber machine gun. He put the gun into action in the building which housed the platoon’s ammunition supply and fired three thousand rounds into the hostile force. After expending all of his machine gun ammunition, he ran to an abandoned mortar and fired three mortar shells at the onrushing enemy troops, halting their advance. By his magnificent courage and intrepidity at a time when others had sought cover, Corporal Kotkovetz eliminated a serious threat to the regimental flank. Corporal Kotkovetz’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 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.