(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 Sergeant Jack Eugene Underwood (ASN: 33306784), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 339th Infantry Regiment, 85th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Italy, on 12 and 13 May 1944. On that date, Sergeant Underwood’s unit occupied a Hill near Transmensuoil, Italy. When the company was relieved, Sergeant Underwood and a companion elected to stay behind and beat off the German counterattack which was suddenly launched against the position. Sergeant Underwood found himself in a German dugout, but the only way to use it against the enemy was to fire from a small slit trench which gave room enough for only one man at a time. The counterattacks were stopped and approximately 30 of the enemy were killed. Sergeant Underwood’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 85th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.