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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Elmer J. McMahon (ASN: 0-1314716), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Plaridel, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 2 February 1945. Second Lieutenant McMahon was a Platoon Commander of Company A, 148th Infantry Regiment, which was advancing up a road against an enemy strongpoint. The company was halted by heavy machine gun and rifle fire from an enemy pillbox. Forming his platoon into a skirmish line, Second Lieutenant McMahon took a position in front of his men and led them in the attack. Approaching the pillbox, he was suddenly fired upon by the machine gun and seriously wounded, but kept moving forward. Three of his men, inspired by his courageous action, followed him in assaulting the position. Using hand grenades and rifles, the four stormed the emplacement and killed the ten enemy within it. Second Lieutenant McMahon died soon afterward, while being evacuated to the rear. Through his indomitable fighting spirit and inspiring leadership, he aided in the destruction of an enemy strongpoint and enabled his company to continue on its assigned mission. Second Lieutenant McMahon’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, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.