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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Vincent Edward McKenna (ASN: 0-1168815), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Service Battery, 434th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 September 1944 near Dornot, France. When advancing allied troops were subjected to heavy losses caused by enemy mortar, artillery, and small-arms fire, Lieutenant McKenna voluntarily moved to a forward observation post to direct fire from his own artillery. Completely disregarding his own personal safety, he exposed himself to the enemy to adjust his fire upon the enemy positions. So close was the contact with the enemy that some of his own shells burst within a few yards of his observation post. So efficient was his adjustment of fire that a grave situation for the advancing infantry elements was alleviated. Second Lieutenant McKenna’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.