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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) James C. Conlon (ASN: 0-426733), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 6th Armored Infantry Battalion, 1st Armored Division, in action against enemy forces at the Maknass Pass in Tunisia, North Africa, on or about 30 March 1943. In the face of concentrated machine gun and rifle fire, Lieutenant Conlon led his platoon in an assault on an enemy-occupied hill. He moved well out in front of his platoon to set an example and encourage his men. His bravery and intrepidity so inspired the platoon that it quickly overran the enemy position and single-handedly captured many prisoners before his platoon arrived. During reorganization of the platoon at this point, Lieutenant Conlon was struck by a burst of machinegun fire and mortally wounded. Second Lieutenant Conlon’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Armored Division, and the United States Army.