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 Corporal Vergial Edwin Danforth (ASN: 35573725), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving Company G, 2d Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces in June 1944, at Marie-du-Mont, France. When two enemy machine guns opened fire on his squad, Corporal Danforth rushed forward, despite the intense enemy fire, along a hedge row and with hand grenades inflicted severe casualties on the enemy causing them to withdraw. By this fearless action Corporal Danforth was able to reorganize his squad and hold his assigned position. Corporal Danforth’s initiative, personal courage and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.