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 (Coast Artillery Corps), [then Major] William Massello, Jr. (ASN: 0-18749), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding Battery E, 2d Battalion, 60th Coast Artillery Regiment (Anti-Aircraft), U.S. Army Coast Artillery Corps (Philippine Islands) in action against enemy forces on 5 and 6 May 1942, at Fort Mills, Corregidor, in the Philippine Islands. When Japanese forces, after a heavy shelling and aerial attack against the island, began landing on Corregidor, Colonel Massello selected salvo points and began to fire on the approaching enemy aircraft. Again his battery position was immediately subjected to a barrage of shells, but under the continuing hail of explosives and although critically wounded, he continued to work with the men in the pit, assisting their firing operations. Three of the four guns were completely destroyed by enemy shell fire and air attacks and, after firing the last large shell from Corregidor, the fourth gun’s breechblock was so hot that it would no longer function. By his determined leadership and courageous conduct, Colonel Massello inspired his men to heroic attainments in the defense of Corregidor. His 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.