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) Vestal R. Lester (ASN: 0-1304245), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 21 November 1944, in Germany. First Lieutenant Lester’s company was pinned down less than 200 yards from its objective by devastating artillery, mortar and small arms fire which inflicted heavy casualties upon his men. Realizing the plight of his men, First Lieutenant Lester advanced through the intense shelling to the foremost of his platoon, reorganized his troops and led them over the bitterly contested ground toward the company objective. Although severely wounded by an artillery shell as he crossed the fire-swept field, First Lieutenant Lester gallantry in leading the attack had so inspired his men that the pushed on to overcome stiff resistance and capture the objective. First Lieutenant Lester’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 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.