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 (Infantry) Daniel Olie Noorlander (ASN: 0-1288603), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 161st Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy while repulsing Japanese attempts to break through his battalion’s defenses on New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 31 July 1943. Leading a patrol to scout enemy strength and positions which were shielded by dense trees and undergrowth, Lieutenant Noorlander encountered a Japanese patrol and was wounded in the neck during an exchange of fire. By the time he had returned to his battalion’s defense area, the enemy had started an attack. Disregarding his wound and his personal safety, Lieutenant Noorlander crawled fifty yards over fire-swept ground to reach a forward position from which he could direct the fire of the platoon he commanded. He made several trips over this hazardous stretch to keep the command post informed of developments and receive new instructions. His unconquerable courage was a distinct source of incentive to the troops, who held their ground and drove off hostile forces. First Lieutenant Noorlander’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 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.