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 Sergeant Kenneth Lamar Gaines (ASN: 34826664), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 320th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 9 and 10 April 1945. Sergeant Gaines voluntarily led a night reconnaissance patrol behind enemy lines and secured valuable information. During an attack the following morning, Sergeant Gaines led his squad in an assault against an enemy emplacement which so disrupted the enemy that the four occupants surrendered without resistance. Later, on his own initiative, Sergeant Gaines moved his squad around a road block and led a running assault on an enemy-held building from the rear, killing two and capturing twelve of the enemy. Sergeant Gaines 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 35th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.