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 Sergeant Paul Richard Lutjens (ASN: 20634777), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 5 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. First Sergeant Lutjens led a platoon in an attack on Buna Village with conspicuous bravery. In spite of heavy enemy fire, he exposed himself without regard to his personal safety in urging his men forward in the attack. When severely wounded by a grenade, he refused to be evacuated until he had given instructions to his second in command. First Sergeant Lutjens’ 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 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.