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 Major (Infantry), [then Captain] Bryce Frederic Denno (ASN: 0-23161), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Executive Officer, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at daybreak on 12 July 1943, in the vicinity of Niscemi, Sicily, while under fire. The Company Commander of the Regimental Cannon Company, which was in direct support, was wounded while trying to repel a violent enemy tank attack against the two forward companies of the battalion. Seeing the need for immediate control Major Denno crossed 500 yards of open terrain in the face of heavy machine-gun and artillery fire and took command of a section of the Cannon Company consisting of one half-track, which he had previously leaped into to lead the charge, until it was knocked out of action by enemy fire. He then crossed to the full-track and manned its gun himself, bringing successful fire on the enemy tanks until the attack was repelled. Major Denno’s rapid and heroic action, undertaken with great initiative and leadership, enabled his battalion to go on and capture its objective. This success was in a large measure responsible for the victory of his regiment on this day and was an inspiration to all who witnessed it. Major Denno’s outstanding 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.