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) Albert James Krasman, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 338th Infantry Regiment, 85th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 16 and 17 September 1944, in the vicinity of Mount Altuzzo, Italy. Leading his platoon in the attack to secure the peak of Mount Altuzzo, Second Lieutenant Krasman proceeded with such outstanding qualities of skill, courage, and leadership that he was chiefly instrumental in the accomplishment of this mission in a short time, with a minimum of casualties among his own troops but at great cost to the enemy in men and equipment. By personally reconnoitering the entire route of advance and by skillfully planning and executing his operations, many times exposing himself to intense enemy sniper, automatic and mortar fire, he was able to control the situation at all times. Advancing ahead of the scout squad in the face of strong and stubborn resistance, he led his men in overrunning, one by one, the heavily fortified positions on the extremely steep terrain. Several strong enemy counterattacks were repulsed, and Second Lieutenant Krasman personally accounted for many of the heavy casualties suffered by the enemy. His personal actions at critical moments in the operation provided inspiration and encouragement for all men of his company. Largely because of his efforts, casualties among his men were only a fraction of those suffered by the Germans. During the last counterattack, he was wounded but refused treatment or evacuation until the security of the hill was established. By his heroic deeds and relentless leadership, the objective was taken and secured. Second Lieutenant Krasman’s 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.