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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Lewis William Leeney (ASN: 0-25206), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 20 April 1945. While leading a task force against Ansbach, Germany, Colonel Leeney discovered a bridge necessary to the attack had been destroyed, personally led a reconnaissance to locate another crossing site and returned to lead the armored element of his force. When three enemy 88-mm. guns opened fire on the column, narrowly missing his vehicle, Colonel Leeney fearlessly directed the reduction of the enemy guns and the mopping-up operations in the surrounding woods. Exhibiting courageous leadership he led the task force into the town and inspired by his bold aggressive actions they captured their objective and successfully repulsed determined enemy counterattacks. Lieutenant Colonel Leeney’s heroic determination and gallant devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.