(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Sergeant Ray Estel Purvis (ASN: 37493001), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 5th Company, 2d Regiment, First Special Service Force, in action against enemy forces near Cerreto Alto, Italy, on 1 May 1944. While leading a dawn attack, Sergeant Purvis was wounded by a land mine set off by one of his men. When he heard the click of a second mine signaling its impending detonation, he threw himself on it and was killed. Sergeant Purvis’ 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.