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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Oakley W. Storey (ASN: 0-2035445), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company C, 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Zig-Zag Pass, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 4 and 5 February 1945. Lieutenant Storey had led his men in a successful all-day fight to clear a strong enemy force from a ridge south of the road through Zig-Zag Pass. Late in the afternoon he volunteered to aid a company having difficulty while advancing north of the road. A coordinated attack was planned whereby the two companies would converge on an enemy-held knoll. In the face of heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire he directed repeated attacks against the well dug-in positions and by nightfall had driven a wedge into the enemy lines, when he elected to fortify and hold his gains. Wounded while digging in, he remained with his men to coordinate the defenses. When the enemy launched a fierce counterattack the next morning, he was again wounded, but continued to lead his men as they successfully repelled the enemy assault. Finally, too weakened by shock and loss of blood to carry on, he was evacuated for treatment. By his heroic leadership throughout the furious action, Lieutenant Storey was instrumental in forcing and holding a strategic salient in the enemy defense. His 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 24th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.