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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Robert L. Fierman (ASN: 0-1178471), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Colibong, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 21 March 1945. During a savage Japanese counterattack, Lieutenant Fierman, an artillery observer, was stationed in an exposed forward position which soon became the focal point for concentrated enemy fire. Disregarding the pleas of his men that he take cover in a foxhole, he remained in the open, the better to direct his artillery. With enemy artillery and mortar shells bursting around him he remained at his radio for twenty-five minutes, until struck by a shell fragment which flung him ten feet from the radio and wounded him seriously. Bleeding profusely and in great pain, he remained at his post, skillfully directing artillery fire, until a withdrawal was begun to another position. Only then did he allow his serious wound to be dressed. Through his outstanding heroism in the face of grave danger and his high devotion to duty, Lieutenant Fierman was instrumental in causing many losses among the Japanese forces and protecting the successful withdrawal of his battalion to a more advantageous position. His 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 and the United States Army.