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 Sergeant Andrew Henry Pepin, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 43d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Baanga Island in the Solomon Islands, from 11 to 15 August 1943. When his company was establishing a beachhead at Baanga Island, the enemy suddenly opened fire and made it impossible for landing operations to continue or for the small party already ashore to return to its boat. When his Commanding Officer was wounded, Sergeant Pepin assumed command of the 34 stranded men and established a perimeter defense at the edge of the jungle. Under heavy fire of attacking Japanese forces, he moved calmly among his men, reorganizing his line and administering aid to the wounded. Those who did not become casualties he dispersed among the dead and wounded, deceiving the enemy as to his strength. After exercising steady control for almost five days, he led the survivors in a successful escape under heavy fire to a boat which had arrived to rescue them. Sergeant Pepin’s sustained courage and brilliant leadership saved the lives of several of his men and strengthened them to hold out against greatest odds until they were rescued. Sergeant Pepin’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 43d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.