(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Private First Class John James Mattiace (ASN: 32004974), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 165th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands on 17 June 1944. When an enemy soldier threw a grenade into the midst of seven American soldiers, Private First Class Mattiace, choosing to give his own life to save the lives of his six comrades, threw himself on the grenade, thereby absorbing the full impact of the explosion. Private First Class Mattiace’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 and the United States Army.