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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) William Joseph Honan (ASN: 0-1324885), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 302d Infantry Regiment, 94th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 6 and 7 March 1945. During fierce fighting near Lampaden, Germany, Lieutenant Honan commanded a machine gun platoon. When overwhelming enemy forces cut off two of his gun sections, Lieutenant Honan, with complete disregard for his own safety stood in an exposed position and fired a machine gun from his hip, pinning down the attacking German forces while his men withdrew to a new position. Under intense sniper fire he maneuvered to another position and again exposed himself to cover his men. The following morning during another counterattack he personally manned a mortar, inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy, inspiring his men by his bold, fearless leadership. The determination and courageous devotion to duty of Second Lieutenant Honan exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 94th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.