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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ernest Owen Harris (ASN: 0-463807), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 502d Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. After landing by parachute with a small detachment of men, Lieutenant Harris was en route to the battalion assembly area when he encountered heavy machine gun and small arms fire from the enemy. Displaying superb courage and fearless leadership, he personally led an attack upon the garrison and succeeded in destroying a pillbox and several gun emplacements, killing eight enemy and capturing 24. Although he was still exposed to intense fire, he moved along the outside of the fortress and selected defensive positions for his detachment. For a period of 30 hours he skillfully directed his unit’s fire upon the enemy, repelling repeated counterattacks. The personal bravery, aggressive leadership, and valor displayed by First Lieutenant Harris exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.