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 Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) John Leonard Curran (ASN: 0-361219), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Chaplain with the 88th Field Artillery Regiment (Philippine Scouts), Philippine Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Culis, Bataan, Philippine Islands, on 6 January 1942. When heavy bombing and shelling by hostile planes and artillery had put out of action a gun of the organization to which Chaplain Curran was assigned, the casualties and remaining personnel of the firing battery were moved to the shelter of a nearby ravine. Although the area was subjected to intense shell fire and repeated bombing attacks, this courageous officer, without consideration of self, persisted for a period of eight hours, in the absence of a medical officer, in his humane administrations to the wounded and dying, and assisted in the evacuation of casualties. His example of fortitude and unselfishness was an inspiration to the entire battery. Chaplain Curran’s 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 and the United States Army.