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 Staff Sergeant Richard F. Heinzelman (ASN: 6919819), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 2d Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 July 1944 in the vicinity of Cormain, France. Sergeant Heinzelman was guiding a tank forward under heavy machine gun and mortar fire when its inter-communication system failed. Without thought of his personal safety and at the risk of his life, he promptly climbed to the turret of the tank to direct its movement of fire. Although wounded, Sergeant Heinzelman continued to direct the tank from this exposed position, with the result that several enemy machine gun and mortal positions were eliminated. When the tank was immobilized by enemy fire, he helped evacuate the members of the tank crew before seeking safety. Staff Sergeant Heinzelman’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, the 5th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.