(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 Private First Class Joe R. Siedenburg (ASN: 36723832), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 187th Glider Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 2 and 3 May 1945. Private First Class Siedenburg’s squad was part of a mopping-up patrol that ventured into the wooded folds of Mount Batulao. Deep in the mountain they found an enemy strong point and received heavy rifle and automatic weapons fire. Private First Class Siedenburg deployed his squad into an assault, and overran the position, killing 27 Japanese without a loss to his own patrol, which were engaged in their first combat action of the war. Proceeding further into the mountain, on the following day, as they stalked up a wooded draw, the squad was pinned down by extremely heavy enemy fire. The opening burst wounded one of Private First Class Siedenburg’s men, and he fell, exposed to fire from the concealed enemy position. Disregarding his own safety, Private First Class Siedenburg left his cover and crawled across the open terrain to his wounded comrade. He received a mortal wound to his chest, but continued toward the wounded man, picked him up, and began to carry him back to cover. Although he was twice more struck by enemy bullets, Private First Class Siedenburg continued withdrawing, removing his wounded comrade to safety before he died of his own wounds. Private First Class Siedenburg’s 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, the 11th Airborne Division, and the United States Army.