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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Lewis S. Dilello (ASN: 0-1326046), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 4 October 1944. On that date, the Third Platoon of Company G, Commanded by Lieutenant Dilello, attempted to secure one of the entrances of the heavily defended Fort Driant, France, but was forced to withdraw because of intense enemy artillery and small arms fire. Of his own volition and with complete disregard for his safety, Lieutenant Dilello covered the withdrawal of his men. Taking an automatic rifle he held the enemy at bay with intense and accurate fire so that his men could return to positions of greater safety. While courageously holding his position he was killed by an enemy hand grenade. The conspicuous courage of Lieutenant Dilello, his heroic, inspiring leadership and supreme devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States.