(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Captain (Field Artillery) Richard B. Hawk, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Battery B, 155th Field Artillery Battalion, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Cassino, Italy, on 18 March 1944. A heavy enemy counter barrage was directed at Captain Hawk’s battery positions, causing many casualties. Captain Hawk made his way through heavy shelling to gun positions of his battery which had been hit. He directed the removal of seriously wounded to protected areas, and helped administer first aid treatment. During his effort to evacuate the wounded, a shell burst blew him from and ambulance and across a road, but he continued his heroic efforts. Captain Hawk’s consideration for the men of his command and his courage and calm efficiency under fire provided an inspiration to his battery. His 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.