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 (Chemical Corps), [then Staff Sergeant] Joseph Terry (ASN: 0-1993461), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 86th Chemical Battalion (Motorized), attached to the 28th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 December 1944, in Germany. During a prolonged a hostile artillery barrage, a direct hit upon an ammunition shed near Second Lieutenant Terry’s platoon command post detonated a large quantity of while phosphorus and high explosive shells, threatening the lives of a group of men billeted in a nearby building. At great personal risk, Second Lieutenant Terry boldly ran through flying particles of burning phosphorus and billows of smoke to warn the troops of the impending danger. Disregarding his personal safety, he successfully evacuated the troops through the artillery concentration and exploding shells. Upon hearing a cry for help emanating from the billet, Second Lieutenant Terry re-entered the blazing building, groped through dense smoke and found one of his men unable to walk because of a severe wound. Without hesitation, he took the soldier in his arms and carried him through flames and falling debris. As he reached the outside of the building, white phosphorus particles burned his clothing and intense artillery fire threatened both men. Unable to see because of heavy smoke, Second Lieutenant Terry slowly but with great courage and determination, carried the wounded soldier to safety. As a result of Second Lieutenant Terry’s daring in the face of great danger, six men were saved from certain death. His dedication to his comrades, 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 and the United States Army.