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 Private First Class William Boyd Olsen (ASN: 33010262), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 157th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Sicily, on 29 July 1943. Private Olsen, while acting as an assistant gunner, in the face of a strong enemy counterattack, moved aside the body of a deceased comraded and placed his gun in operation. Choosing certain death rather than retreat, he slowed the enemy until he was killed in action while still over his gun. His sacrifice substantially aided in the successful withdrawal of his company to a new position, where it was able to reorganize, and with reinforcements, hold a ridge which was an important position and made possible the capture of a town on the following day. Private First Class Olsen’s extraordinary heroism, 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 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.