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 Captain (Infantry), [then Staff Sergeant] Michael J. Auer (ASN: 0-2006838), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 19th Armored Infantry Battalion, 14th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces from 13 to 20 January 1945 near Hatten, France. When his battalion was forced to withdraw and covering unit was cut off by the enemy, Captain Auer moved about from group to group under intense enemy artillery, mortar, and small-arms fire and, organizing and encouraging the troops with him, did much by his aggressive and fearless leadership to save the covering force. With the battalion again on the offensive, Captain Auer manned a machine gun, and, in addition, hurled grenades into the enemy position and broke up a German attack single-handed. Then, fighting a rear guard action, he enabled a surrounded and outnumbered company to withdraw from threatened enemy encirclement. Captain Auer’s heroic leadership, 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 14th Armored Division, and the United States Army.