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 (Infantry) Raymond T. Lahar, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 9 November 1944, at Vinemont, France. While leading an assault force in an attack on a stubbornly defended enemy-held hill, Lieutenant Lahar led his men in destroying the hostile outposts. By executing a brilliant outflanking maneuver, he took the enemy force completely by surprise and inflicted heavy casualties. When the enemy moved up reinforcements and infiltrated back into their original positions, Lieutenant Lahar, with complete disregard for his personal safety, made a lone reconnaissance of the enemy positions. Although he was severely wounded in both legs by hostile automatic weapons fire, he ordered a litter to be built and continued to command his group. Several hours later contact was reestablished with another friendly unit and the patrol was saved. First Lieutenant Lahar’s inspiring leadership, 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, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.