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 Staff Sergeant Lester Wallwyn Saunders (ASN: 36600511), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 418th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission over Germany on 8 October 1943. Sergeant Saunders, serving as the left waist gunner in the leading plane in the mission, was mortally wounded immediately after the bombing run. In spite of his painful and serious wounds, Sergeant Saunders remained at his post firing at the enemy fighters during their repeated attacks and refused first aid until the enemy attacks had ceased. Sergeant Saunders’ courage, devotion to duty, and his heroism were directly responsible for the safe return of his plane and crew, and reflect great credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.