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 Sergeant [then Corporal] Charles Elmer Nau (ASN: 13145277), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 17 September 1944 near Heuman, Holland. As a rifle squad leader, Sergeant Nau was leading his squad in a daring frontal assault by his platoon on an important highway bridge 5 miles southwest of Nijmegen, Holland, when his platoon leader fell seriously wounded. Completely disregarding his own safety and exposing himself to withering small arms fire which at times cut his clothing, Sergeant Nau immediately assumed control of the assault element and led it boldly across the bridge. During the course of the attack his squad killed or wounded 6 of the enemy. The impetus of the assault inspired by Sergeant Nau’s Heroic leadership swept the enemy from the bridge, prevented them from detonating the prepared demolitions laid to destroy the objective, and enabled follow-up troops to quickly mop up and consolidate the vital bridge objective. By his intrepid direction, heroic leadership, and aggressive attitude, Sergeant Nau set an inspiring example for his men. His 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 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.