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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Hiram F. Fenton, Jr., United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Velletri, Italy, on 1 June 1944. While his infantry platoon held a defensive position, Lieutenant Fenton heard the outbreak of a German attack against another sector of his company’s defenses. Immediately investigating, he determined the enemy’s strength and avenue of approach and notified the company commander. Requesting permission to lead a platoon to shatter the assault, he led his men into combat against the numerically superior Germany force. Fighting in front of his men, against enemy machine gun nests, he continued to advance, skillfully directing his men in the rout of the enemy. Although painfully wounded, he led his men until the attack was stopped and the enemy forced to withdraw. Then, despite his wounds, he walked 200 yards to report the results to his company commander. Second Lieutenant Fenton’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, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.