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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Vernon C. Harris (ASN: 0-1294661), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Italy, on 10 – 13 October 1943. Second Lieutenant Harris’ platoon was detailed as leading element for an opposed crossing of the Volturno River. He led his platoon across the stream through friendly fire and into the face of enemy machine gun, mortar, and artillery fire. Continuing his advance, he led his men straight to the enemy’s commanding positions; and after hand-to-hand fighting his platoon captured the initial objective. Second Lieutenant Harris was mortally wounded by artillery fire during this engagement. Although suffering severe pain, he personally directed and supervised the organization of his platoon for defense and fired signal flares to indicate success and mark his position. Upon arrival of the Company Commander, he pointed out several enemy machine gun positions which were endangering his platoon. Second Lieutenant Harris’ heroism and loyalty to duty insured the security of his company’s objective. His 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 34th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.