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 Nelson D. Palmer (ASN: 13117090), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of Troop G, 2d Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against enemy forces near Lipa, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 3 April 1945, while serving as Liaison to a Filipino Guerrilla group engaged in reconnoitering and obtaining information behind enemy lines. Private Palmer’s company of Filipinos was given the job of destroying an isolated enemy position. While deploying the guerrillas for the attack, the unit met sudden machine gun fire from its flank, which threatened to turn the Filipino advance into a rout. Private Palmer, realizing that his force had become panicky, instantly dashed to the front, scorning cover, and by a superb, daring effort and reckless personal exposure, succeeded in rallying his wavering command. Inspired by his personal example and words of encouragement the guerrillas carried out the attack, at the height of which, with success in sight, Private Palmer was killed. At the end he was in the van encouraging his men by his gallant efforts. Private Palmer’s heroic performance of duty on this occasion made his name a by-word, synonymous with courage and skill. His conduct was an enduring source of inspiration to his comrades. Private Palmer’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 and the United States Army.