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 Private Gibson Fryer (ASN: 7080240), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. A small reconnaissance patrol, of which Private Pryor was a member, penetrated deep into enemy-held territory. When well within the enemy lines, the patrol was suddenly brought under the fire of a deeply entrenched German mortar company. Despite the lack of cover and concealment from the intense enemy fire, Private Fryer, accompanied by another man, moved forward to close with the enemy. He worked his way to within twenty yards of the enemy position at which point he threw hand grenades into the enemy dugouts causing heavy casualties. Without hesitation, he and his comrade immediately charged into the enemy emplacements and fearlessly closed with the enemy forces. In this attack several of the enemy were killed and twelve prisoners were taken. The personal bravery, aggressiveness and courage displayed by Private Fryer in the face of superior enemy forces reflects great credit on himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.