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 Sergeant James Irie Mallette (ASN: 0-890279), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, Philippine Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Abucay Hacienda in the Philippine Islands, on 24 January 1942. Inspired by his leadership, Sergeant Mallette’s platoon successfully repulsed three successive attacks by determined enemy forces against his hastily organized defensive position. During the attack, and while under intense enemy fire, he contributed greatly to the effectiveness of his platoon’s heroic resistance by personally delivering extra ammunition to every man. Demonstrating further his devotion to duty and disregard for the hazards of hostile fire, this non-commissioned officer approached two machine guns which had been put out of action by enemy snipers, and by the use of hand grenades, drove the snipers from the vicinity of the guns. Sergeant Mallette’s 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 and the United States Army.