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 William A. Wagner (ASN: 31050039), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 6 February 1945. During the street fighting in Manila, the infantry company to which Private First Class Wagner was attached as litter bearer was checked by heavy enemy resistance on its front and flanks, and mortar fire to its rear. The flames from burning buildings nearby made immediate evacuation of the wounded imperative. To reach the wounded men, Private First Class Wagner had to traverse forty yards of exposed road, follow a zigzag course through mined approaches and cross a bridge at the center of which five 300-pound bombs were wired. The entire route was swept by enemy machine gun fire and bordered by blazing buildings from which burning embers were falling. Private First Class Wagner voluntarily traversed this hazardous route alone and returned carrying a wounded comrade to safety. He returned to the burning area and rescued another man, Then, joined by other litter bearers, he made five more trips, each time bringing out another casualty. Private First Class Wanger, by his heroic perseverance in the face of enemy fire and intense heat from burning buildings, saved the lives of seven of his comrades. Private First Class Wagner’s 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 and the United States Army.