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 First Class Bernard Otto Schmidt (ASN: 36834582), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Manila, Philippine Islands, on 17 February 1945. When Company A of the 145th Infantry Regiment was attacking the Santa Theresa College Building in Manila, two scouts were seriously wounded while crossing an exposed area of the demolished ground floor. Although the two men were covered by such heavy enemy rifle and machine gun fire that rescue seemed impossible, Private Schmidt, a Medical Aid Man, volunteered to go to their assistance. Creeping and crawling under the intense enemy fire, he succeeded in working his way up to the casualties. After administering first aid, he crawled back, dragging one man at a time to a concealed position. The casualties were then carried to the Battalion Aid Station. With outstanding heroism Privat e Schmidt risked his life and saved two comrades from death. His 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 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.