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 (Infantry) Martin Luke, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 133d Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Alife, Italy, on 21 October 1943. Penetrating deep into enemy lines under cover of heavy fog, Lieutenant Luke’s company became pinned down by heavy enemy machinegun fire from the front. During a pause in the firing, he and his runner advanced toward the enemy guns. Locating a ditch which provided a suitable point from which to launch an attack, Lieutenant Luke sent his runner back to assemble an attacking force. The runner returned with seven men, and Lieutenant Luke led his group against an enemy machinegun nest and neutralized it with rifle fire. Lieutenant Luke then moved forward alone and attacked a second machine gun nest, capturing two Germans. He continued to lead his group forward, every man firing almost continuously at the enemy who appeared from every side. A third machinegun nest was destroyed by First Lieutenant Luke and his men. First Lieutenant Luke’s actions were largely responsible for the removal of enemy resistance in the sector. His indomitable courage and aggressive leadership exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.