(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 Elmer Sutherland (ASN: 36198764), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 339th Infantry Regiment, 85th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Tremensuolci, Italy, on 11 May 1944. Although severely wounded by mine explosions, Private First Class Sutherland, firing his automatic rifle from an exposed position, engaged in a duel with an enemy pillbox. While constant artillery and mortar fire was directed at him, he silenced the German position and repulsed countless counter-attacks until he was killed by a direct hit from a mortar shell. Private First Class Sutherland’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 85th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.