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) Leonard Edward Scott (ASN: 0-1294542), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st 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, Second Lieutenant Scott together with several other officers and men became separated from his organization. He then fearlessly left a 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 Scott remained at this position engaging the enemy until he was seriously wounded. Second Lieutenant Scott’s devotion to duty and heroism materially contributed to the defeat of the enemy forces. His gallant 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.