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) John Lycas (ASN: 0-446927), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 July 1943, in Sicily. When the enemy hurled an attack of 30 to 40 tanks against the recently established beachhead, First Lieutenant Lycas, together with several other officers and men became separated by this attack. Lieutenant Lycas then left his concealed position and made his way over hundreds of yards of heavily shelled terrain in the path of the approaching tanks to reach an abandoned anti-tank gun. Lieutenant Lycas engaged the enemy at close range and continued to fire even after the tanks had encircled his position. He remained at this position until his ammunition ran out and then made his way back over the shell-swept terrain to his unit and materially assisted in their reorganization and led them in a victorious attack. First Lieutenant Lycas’ 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, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.