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 Private First Class George Charles Presterly (ASN: 33494254), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 236th Engineer Combat Battalion, 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional) (Merrill’s Marauders), in action against enemy forces at Myitkyina, Burma, on 20 June 1944. Private First Class Presterly was the leading scout of a combat patrol which was approaching an enemy fortified position. He worked his way forward several yards and in advance of the patrol, and continued to advance until fired upon and wounded. Although mortally wounded, he kept advancing toward the enemy, firing his rifle until he fell dead. By drawing fire from the enemy, he saved the patrol from serious losses. Private First Class Presterly’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.