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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Patrick G. Combs, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 319th Field Artillery Battalion, 88th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Santa Maria Infante, Italy, from 11 to 13 May 1944. During an attack on Santa Maria Infante, Lieutenant Combs company became pinned down by heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire. The battalion commander moved forward, accompanied by Lieutenant Combs and his observer party, and seven wiremen. This small group moved through the attacking company and, using grenade launchers, grenades, carbines and rifles, assaulted the machine guns holding up the advance. The battalion commander was killed and Lieutenant Combs assumed command of the party and personally led the attack on three machine gun nests, silencing each one. Since no infantry officer was present, he also assumed command of the assault company and ordered part of his men to dig in while he moved forward with the remainder to hold an important terrain feature. During the entire attack, he maintained radio communications with his artillery and conducted effective supporting fire. When another company came forward to continue the attack, Lieutenant Combs deliberately exposed himself to both German and American fire to identify his troops to the attacking company. He then accompanied the attack which resulted in the capture of the town. First Lieutenant Combs’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 88th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.