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) David E. Milotta (ASN: 0-460579), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d 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 Milotta, together with several other officers and men became separated by this attack. Lieutenant Milotta 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 Milotta engaged the enemy armor at almost point-blank range and continued to fire even after the tanks had encircled his position. He remained at his position until two of his companions were seriously wounded, and at further risk to his life evacuated these men. Through his extraordinary heroism and high devotion to duty in the face of such great odds, First Lieutenant Milotta materially contributed to the eventual defeat of the enemy and 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.