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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Paul Bandy (ASN: 0-358457), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 319th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 23 December 1944, in Luxembourg. On that date, Colonel Bandy led the 319th Infantry against Heiderscheid, Luxembourg, four miles in front of the existing front lines. The town was taken, but while defensive organization was in progress the enemy counter-attacked in force with tanks and infantry. Colonel Bandy courageously led his men against the enemy and put them to rout. The following morning during another strong counter-attack this intrepid officer organized all available men and personally led them in defense of the Command Post, coolly calling friendly artillery fire on his own positions. He was continually in the front lines, inspiring the troops by his fearless, gallant example. His conspicuous courage, fearless leadership and heroic devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 80th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.