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 Captain (Field Artillery) Edward Lawrence Parrish, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 987th Field Artillery Battalion (Separate), FIRST U.S. Army, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 18 November 1944. Captain Parrish elected to take personal command of a section of his battery on an extremely dangerous firing mission. As the section occupied its position, a shot from a German sniper killed his gunner. With total disregard for his own safety, Captain Parrish courageously manned the sight, knowing that this would present himself as a target to the sniper. Disregarding intense mortar and machine gun fire upon the gun position, he coolly and calmly directed the firing of three rounds which completely destroyed the assigned target. As the last round was fired, an enemy shell landed near the gun, killing two members of the crew and wounding six others. While other shells fell dangerously nearby, Captain Parrish ordered the withdrawal of his men and personally remained behind to evacuate the wounded. By his gallant leadership, valor, and unflinching devotion to duty, Captain Parrish exemplified the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.