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 Staff Sergeant Donald L. Chase (ASN: 32293631), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Squad Leader with an Infantry Company of the 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 12 June 1944. On that date, Staff Sergeant Chase was moving his squad forward with a mission to reduce an enemy pillbox when, as the squad neared its objective, heavy machine gun fire pinned it to the ground and inflicted heavy casualties. Fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own safety, he immediately charged forward toward the enemy pillbox. He paused only long enough to throw two hand grenades through the embrasure and then, rushing in, he overcame the numerically superior enemy forces, killing at least four of the enemy and taking several prisoners. The gallantry, initiative, and determined leadership displayed by Staff Sergeant Chase exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.