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 (Corps of Engineers) Jesse Lawrence Davis, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 19th Engineer Combat Regiment (Separate), in action against enemy forces near San Angelo, Italy, on 21 January 1944. During the preparation for a river crossing a detail was sent forward to clear mines and mark routes to the designated crossing site. All members of the party, except one, became casualties in the attempt. First Lieutenant Davis unhesitatingly undertook the completion of this extremely hazardous mission of clearing a safe route to the river’s edge. In broad daylight and through a smoke screen that was ineffective, he led a group of men forward in the face of mortar and machine gun fire to accomplish his task. As the party made its way back to safety, engineers and infantry of the first wave moved toward the river’s edge. Enemy fire became so intense that the attack was momentarily halted. Although assigned no further mission, First Lieutenant Davis remained on an exposed flag, urging men forward, reorganizing boat crews as casualties occurred and leading them to the river. Although wounded by a shell fragment early in the operation, he remained under fire until all infantry of the assault battalion had crossed the stream five hours later. First Lieutenant Davis’ 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.