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 Private Steve W. Parks (ASN: 20649455), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 20 December 1942, during the Papuan Campaign at Buna, New Guinea. Private Parks was a member of a patrol which attempted to cross a bridge over Sinemi Creek. The patrol encountered fierce enemy fire and was forced to withdraw, leaving a wounded man directly in the line of enemy fire. Seeing the plight of his comrade, Private Parks voluntarily braved the enemy automatic and sniper fire to rescue the wounded man and to remove him to a relatively safe position, where he rendered first aid. Private Parks’ 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.