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 Staff Sergeant John Harvey McRoberts (ASN: 39304006), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 22 June 1944, at Biak Island, Dutch New Guinea. After leading his squad to within twenty-five yards of two heavily constructed enemy pill boxes, Staff Sergeant McRoberts encountered such heavy fire that the forward movement of his men was stopped. On his own initiative and alone he charged the enemy position and firing rapidly, killed two enemy soldiers and wounded a third. Although seriously wounded, he then directed his squad in reducing the enemy fortification, and enabled his platoon to secure the contested area. The extraordinary courage displayed by Staff Sergeant McRoberts in this action contributed materially to our success in defeating the enemy. 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, the 41st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.