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 Staff Sergeant Wallace McNeil (ASN: 36456361), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Manila, Philippine Islands, on 23 February 1945. Immediately following a preparatory artillery barrage, Sergeant McNeil, a squad leader, led the first group of American soldiers to enter the Walled City in the battle of Manila. Rushing out from the shelter of the General Post Office and skillfully using what slight cover the route afforded, he led his men in a swift advance across the intervening two hundred yards under intense enemy rifle and machine gun fire. In a matter of seconds they reached the massive walls of the ancient fortress. Sergeant McNeil then led his squad through the ruined Quezon Gate and into the Letran College building within the Walled City. An enemy mortar was captured by them just as it was about to open fire on the attacking forces and its crew killed. Sergeant McNeil, through his bold and gallant action in leading the assault on the Walled City, was instrumental in opening the way for the successful attack which followed and his magnificent example was an inspiration to those who followed him. His 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.