The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Arthur Frederick Defranzo (ASN: 31002154), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, on 10 June 1944, near Vaubadon, France, while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. As scouts were advancing across an open field, the enemy suddenly opened fire with several machineguns and hit one of the men. Staff Sergeant DeFranzo courageously moved out in the open to the aid of the wounded scout and was himself wounded but brought the man to safety. Refusing aid, Staff Sergeant DeFranzo reentered the open field and led the advance upon the enemy. There were always at least two machineguns bringing unrelenting fire upon him, but Staff Sergeant DeFranzo kept going forward, firing into the enemy and one-by-one the enemy emplacements became silent. While advancing he was again wounded, but continued on until he was within 100 yards of the enemy position and even as he fell, he kept firing his rifle and waving his men forward. When his company came up behind him, Staff Sergeant DeFranzo, despite his many severe wounds, suddenly raised himself and once more moved forward in the lead of his men until he was again hit by enemy fire. In a final gesture of indomitable courage, he threw several grenades at the enemy machinegun position and completely destroyed the gun. In this action, Staff Sergeant DeFranzo lost his life, but by bearing the brunt of the enemy fire in leading the attack, he prevented a delay in the assault which would have been of considerable benefit to the foe, and he made possible his company’s advance with a minimum of casualties. The extraordinary heroism and magnificent devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant DeFranzo was a great inspiration to all about him, and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the armed forces.