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 Major (Infantry) Charles Paul Loeper (ASN: 0-311549), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 188th Glider Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces while leading an attack on an enemy-held airfield on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 February 1945. Major Loeper organized an assault team of advanced elements and led this group across Nichols Field, where his Regiment had been pinned down by enemy fire. Killed as he led his battalion in an attack which broke a main line of enemy pillbox-studded defense, inspired by his example, his troops charged forward in a determined attack, shattered the enemy’s main line of resistance, routed the defenders and paved the way for speedy seizure of the objective. Major Loeper’s 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 11th Airborne Division, and the United States Army.