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 Colonel Jean Marie Leon Piatte, Army of France, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding the 4th Moroccan Tirailleur Regiment, French Army, in action against enemy forces in France, on 17 November 1944. Colonel Piatte personally led his forces under violent enemy fire in their vitally essential mission to cross the Doller River. At that time, as well as upon countless other occasions, he was in the thick of battle checking on positions and giving encouragement to his men, completely unconcerned for his own safety. Colonel Piatte’s extraordinary heroism was an illustrious reminder of the devotion which brought glory to France in the past and which is accompanying her restoration to preeminence. Colonel Piatte’s outstanding accomplishments, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the Allied Nations.