(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 Captain (Infantry) Paul Kenneth Mellichamp (ASN: 0-318160), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Battalion Executive Officer with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 July 1943, at New Georgia, Solomon Islands. During the day’s action, Captain Mellichamp picked up a radio from a wounded operator and directed mortar fire. Although severely wounded, he continued to direct fire until he collapsed, and subsequently died of his wounds. Captain Mellichamp’s outstanding leadership, 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 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.