The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) George Thomas Coleman (ASN: 0-22150), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding the 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Manila, Philippine Islands, on 26 and 27 January and 7 and 8 February 1945. Colonel Coleman, commanding an infantry battalion, while leading his forces toward a strategic road junction, encountered strong enemy resistance from a heavily fortified road block supported by concealed tanks. Disregarding his own safety he moved forward and reconnoitered the enemy position in order to take up the most advantageous location for directing an attack. Thereafter he remained with his most advanced elements, encouraging his men and directing the attack which resulted in destruction of the enemy position. Later during the heaviest fighting in Manila, he voluntarily left cover and again undertook a detailed personal reconnaissance to select two strategic points in order that he could lead his forces in an attack against a large fortified manufacturing plant. Entering the plant under heavy fire he killed two of the enemy, but while proceeding across an open area to make future reconnaissance was mortally wounded. Colonel Coleman’s example of aggressiveness, gallantry and courageous leadership under fire at the supreme sacrifice of his life upholds the highest traditions of the military service.