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 Private First Class Joseph James Cunha, Jr. (ASN: 39003611), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Attu, Aleutian Islands, Territory of Alaska, on 19 May 1943. In an assault on enemy positions in Massacre Bay, Sarana Pass, Private First Class displayed great valor and imitative beyond the call of duty. Assigned as a runner to a supporting weapons platoon, he sought permission to assist a forward rifle platoon clean out enemy positions that were holding up the attack. He boldly exposed himself to constant enemy fire to join the advanced platoon. With superb courage he crawled within range of an enemy machine gun, neutralized it with two grenades and then rushed forward and killed the surviving members of the gun crew. This display of heroism at a critical time enabled the platoon to advance and inspired others to emulate his aggressiveness. Later during the action, Private First Class Cunha was mortally wounded. His 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 7th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.