(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Earl Roscoe Matlock, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 242d Engineer Combat Battalion, 77th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Ia Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 17 April 1945. When a Japanese grenade landed in the midst of three men, Private First Class Matlock quickly scooped a hole in the sand, kicked the grenade into it, and then stamped down the sand. The enemy grenade exploded while he was thus engaged, resulting in the loss of his foot, but his quick action saved the lives of his two comrades. Private First Class Matlock’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 77th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.