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 (Infantry) Charles J. Santarsiero (ASN: 0-1304275), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 June 1944, in France. On that date, Second Lieutenant Santarsiero, observing a force of enemy troops moving across the rear of his position, led five men against this enemy force. His aggressiveness and daring action, during which he personally killed six of the enemy, repulsed the enemy force and was instrumental in their subsequent capture. Second Lieutenant Santarsiero’s intrepid leadership, 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 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.