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 Major (Infantry), [then Captain] John J. Christy (ASN: 0-361225), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 101st Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Kernsdorf, Luxembourg, from 26 to 31 December 1944. As Commanding Officer of Company L, Major Christy led his company in assault boats across the Sure River, drove the enemy to the heights overlooking the river and established a firm bridgehead in the face of intense enemy resistance. By skillful disposition of his men and brilliant leadership, Major Christy drove back two hostile fanatical counterattacks, each time inflicting heavy losses on the enemy. On 29 December 1944, in order to assure protection of the bridgehead, his Company was assigned the mission of seizing and securing enemy-held high ground positions, near Hoacht, Luxembourg. His splendid disposition and direction of his Company resulted in heavy casualties upon the German forces, disrupting an enemy counterattack. On the morning of 31 December 1944, the enemy brought up reinforcements and launched a spirited attack. Major Christy in the face of German machine gun, mortar and artillery fire with complete disregard for his personal safety moved among his men, heroically directing the Company’s fire power and supporting artillery fire. As a result of his bold leadership and sound tactical judgment the enemy attack was repulsed and the enemy attempts to drive into the Sure River bridgehead was completely nullified. His aggressive leadership and courageous actions reflect the highest credit on him and exemplify the finest traditions of the United States Infantry.