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 Corporal Conrad O. Kusz (ASN: 35015645), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 February 1945. A rifle company, Company M, 148th Infantry Regiment, was attempting to attack and seize a bridge across the Pasig River, but was halted by demolitions and flaming buildings. During an attempt to by-pass the burning area, a group of men at the rear of the column was held up by enemy machine gun fire. Corporal Kusz made a reconnaissance through fiercely burning buildings for an alternate route of advance, and encountered two enemy riflemen. He killed on and wounded the others and successfully led a group through the buildings and alleyways to rejoint he company. When he arrived, he learned by a check of the men present that one man had been left behind. Corporal Kusz realized the extreme danger presented by the flames and demolitions, but nevertheless voluntarily returned for his missing companion. He reentered the fire-swept area, disregarding heavy machine gun fire. Immediately thereafter, a terrific explosion rocked the entire area. Because of the intensity of the fire, the company was forced to withdraw, and it was not until the next day that Corporal Kusz’ body was recovered. Corporal Kusz exhibited the greatest heroism in voluntarily racing death to search for a wounded companion. 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 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.