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 Private Charles Ball (ASN: 19019171), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, Philippine Division, in action against enemy forces on 24 January 1942, in the vicinity of Abucay Hacienda, Bataan, Philippine Islands. Wounded while his company was occupying an exposed front line position under heavy rifle and machine gun fire, Private Ball refused to be evacuated to the rear, but dressed his own wound and maintained the fire of his automatic rifle, thereby assisting materially in repulsing several strong enemy attacks on his position. When his company was ordered to withdraw, this gallant soldier remained in position, effectively covering the withdrawal of his platoon by fire from his weapon. Private Ball’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 Philippine Scouts, and the United States Army.