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 Gordon R. Stephens (ASN: 7041773), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 1st Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Division, in action against enemy forces in Tunisia, North Africa, on 27 November 1942. Sergeant Stephens commanded a tank that was disabled by enemy fire. After he had directed the evacuation of his crew to the rear along a covered route, Sergeant Stephens proceeded on foot to the other tanks of his platoon to point out to them the concealed positions of the enemy. This was done under heavy enemy machine gun fire, with complete disregard for his own safety. He was killed while carrying out this self-imposed mission. Staff Sergeant Stephens’ 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 1st Armored Division, and the United States Army.