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 Technical Sergeant Robert Bengham Healer, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Cairo, Italy, on 3 February 1944. During a company attack against a strongly fortified enemy-held hill, a platoon was pinned down by heavy machinegun fire and hand grenades. Sergeant Healer, whose platoon followed the leading element, was ordered to maneuver his unit to the left-rear of the enemy machinegun position. Upon moving around the hill his platoon was confronted by fire from another German machinegun. Unhesitatingly, he crawled forward, exposing himself to heavy fire, and hurled two hand grenades into the hostile machine gun nest to destroy the emplacement. Having neutralized this position, he led his platoon forward to eliminate three other enemy machinegun positions which were impeding the advance of his company. Sergeant Haler’s display of aggressive leadership and determined courage enabled his company to complete the mission successfully. 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.