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 Sergeant Harold W. Fackler (ASN: 20503967), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces as the leader of an advance communications unit with assault companies of his battalion on 24 and 30 July 1943, at New Georgia, Solomon Islands. On 24 July, despite severe enemy machine gun, rifle, mortar and grenade fire, Sergeant Fackler remained at his post and maintained communications essential to the success of the operation. Again, on 30 July, he entered a fire-swept area between two enemy centers of resistance to locate and repair a damaged telephone wire. Knowing that his life was at stake, Sergeant Fackler, nevertheless, continued his work until he was killed by enemy machinegun fire. His devotion to his steadfast and courageous effort to maintain communications contributed greatly to the success of his battalion in action. Sergeant Fackler’s 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 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.