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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Gerhard Lessman, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Battery, 48th Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on Attu, Aleutian Islands, Territory of Alaska, from 10 to 20 May 1943. On the night of 18 May 1943, Lieutenant Lessman led three radio operators burdened with heavy equipment, across the precipitous Sarana-Massacre range, through enemy positions to a location in the rear of the enemy lines where he established an artillery observation post. Lieutenant Lessman maintained this post for hours, under constant enemy machine gun, mortar and rifle fire, and skillfully directed accurate and effective artillery fire against the enemy. Lieutenant Lessman’s conspicuous bravery and gallant leadership contributed to the success of the operations and exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.