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 Colonel (Infantry) James Gardiner Conroy (ASN: 0-185592), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 165th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Makin Atoll, on 21 November 1943. During a critical phase of the battle, Colonel Conroy learned that enemy fire was delaying the advance of a unit under his command. He personally took over the operations and urged his men forward. While directing the advance he was shot by a Japanese sniper and instantly killed. Colonel Conroy’s heroic and fearless behavior and his disregard for his own safety were an inspiration to his troops and exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States, reflecting great credit upon himself, and the United States Army.