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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) William Stewart Read (ASN: 0-1183171), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 512th Field Artillery Battalion (Separate), THIRD U.S. Army, in action against enemy forces in Germany, from 17 to 21 February 1945. During this period, Lieutenant Read exhibited courageous determination by constantly remaining in a dangerous forward position to adjust artillery fire on strong German defenses near Freilingen, Germany. On 21 February, he voluntarily moved forward alone through withering hostile fire and destroyed one and disabled another of two approaching enemy tanks. Although wounded in this action he returned to the Company and Battalion Command Posts and rendered a vital, detailed report of enemy activities and disposition. Second Lieutenant Read’s heroic, fearless actions and unswerving devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.