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) William Murry Evans (ASN: 0-1294640), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 16 June 1944. On that date, the 3rd Battalion of the 47th Infantry was making a night march through enemy lines. About 600 yards from the objective a German sentry heard the approach and challenged Lieutenant Evans. Lieutenant Evans attacked the sentry from 100 yards with his submachine gun, firing as he approached. As he drew near the enemy positions, he attracted fire of small arms and a machine gun which was in position from which the battalion would be brought within its field of fire. Realizing the column’s vulnerability to this fire, Lieutenant Evans continued toward the gun until within less than 50 yards of its position, and from there threw a hand grenade that killed 2 of the enemy gun crew. Lieutenant Evans, although dazed from the concussion of an enemy hand grenade which exploded near his head, continued to advance toward the machine gun position and captured the 4 remaining Germans. He remained in the thick of action for the next three days, refusing to return to the rear for treatment until the seriousness of his injuries finally compelled him to be evacuated. Second Lieutenant Evans’ 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, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.