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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Edgar Charles Heist (ASN: 0-1014283), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 70th Tank Battalion, 6th Armored Group (Separate), attached to the 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 22 December 1944. The fearless leadership and conspicuous courage Lieutenant Heist repeatedly displayed while leading his men during action against a strong enemy counter-offensive in Luxembourg distinguishes him as an outstanding officer. He boldly led his men against overwhelming odds, encouraging and inspiring them by his personal, heroic example. On 22 December 1944, when leading a force of tanks against the enemy, Lieutenant Heist’s tank was fired upon by an enemy rocket launcher. Although he had been wounded by a sniper, the Lieutenant dismounted in order to locate his assailant, and was killed while so engaged. First Lieutenant Heist’s bold, aggressive actions and supreme 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.