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 Sergeant Fred Vincent (ASN: 34049153), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Italy, on 31 January 1944. Sergeant Vincent’s squad advanced as the base squad of his Infantry platoon in an attack on an enemy-held hill near Terelle, Italy. The squad suddenly encountered withering small arms and machine gun fire from its front and right flank. He instructed his men to set up a defense along a low stone wall; and, upon his own initiative, he skillfully moved forward alone to locate the enemy emplacements. By deliberately drawing fire upon himself he forced the Germans to disclose their concealed position, and his squad was able to advance and successfully neutralize the obstacle in their path of advance. Sergeant Vincent was mortally wounded in the performance of this act. His 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, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.