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 Captain (Infantry) Albert Charles Geist (ASN: 0-1294649), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany. During the period 15 – 16 April 1945, while leading a motorized patrol from Wippra to Aschersleben, Germany, Captain Geist repeatedly displayed outstanding qualities of heroism and dauntless leadership. With utter disregard for his own safety he led his small patrol against overwhelming odds and personally killed seven enemy soldiers, captured seventeen, and destroyed two anti-tank guns. During the course of the intense two-day action his patrol, inspired by the gallantry of their dauntless leader, captured 282 prisoners, an 88-mm. artillery piece and seven anti-tank guns. Captain Geist’s fearless actions were directly responsible for the capturing of three bitterly defended towns; his indomitable fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.