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) David O. Gorgol, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Mount Lungo, Italy, on 15 December 1943. Second Lieutenant Gorgol led his platoon in an attack against a determined enemy force holding strongly-fortified mountain positions. During the advance over steep mountain terrain he and his platoon were pinned down by withering cross-fire from two concealed positions. He and a member of his platoon stealthily advanced to the right of the nearest machine gun and with hand grenades forced the enemy, by return fire, to disclose the exact location of the weapon. Then, he charged the position, his submachine gun blazing, killing two German gunners and thereby neutralizing the menace to his platoon. His men then advanced and destroyed the remaining enemy machine gun. Second Lieutenant Gorgol’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 and the United States Army.