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 First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Orville Oscar Munson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 48th Engineer Combat Battalion (Separate), in action against enemy forces on 6 January 1944. First Lieutenant Munson led his company in darkness through mined and shelled areas to the foot of Mount Porchia, Italy. He acted as point of the column and was often far in advance and alone in enemy territory. He encountered two enemy machine gun nests from which he drew fire, but he extricated his company by leading his men in a circular path around the enemy positions. During this action, he killed one German at close range with his submachine gun. Later, he encountered an enemy patrol and was captured. With a gun at his back, he shouted a warning to his men and prevented their walking into an ambush. At this time, a hand grenade exploded nearby, a fragment striking First Lieutenant Munson in the shoulder. He fell to the ground and feigned death. His captors took his submachine gun and left the area. First Lieutenant Munson rose, picked up a carbine and captured two prisoners before returning to his company. The courage displayed by First Lieutenant Munson prevented the ambush of his company and also enabled his men to capture six of the enemy patrol. First Lieutenant Munson’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of Corps of Engineers and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.