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 Corporal Harold L. Mitchell (ASN: 20365375), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 7 to 9 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. When enemy troops near Buna attacked the beach positions of his company, Corporal Mitchell charged the enemy alone with his bayonet, delaying them so that his platoon had time to take battle positions and stop them. He then advanced beyond the front lines under heavy fire to capture a wounded enemy in order to get essential information. Corporal Mitchell’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, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.