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 John A. Wakefield (ASN: 33074049), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of Cairo, Italy, on 11 February 1944. When the Germans launched a heavy attack, preceded by an artillery and mortar barrage, against his Infantry battalion’s position on Mount Castellone, Private Wakefield moved his heavy machine gun and ammunition across a fire-swept area to fill a gap left by the destruction of a machine gun in his sector through which the Germans threatened to break. While preparing to fire, he discovered that his weapon was locked with ice. Using matches he quickly thawed his weapon, and opened fire on the onrushing Germans, killing or wounding 40 or more Germans. He remained in his perilous position and when a second wave of enemy started up the slope, his accurate fire again stalled the hostile advance. His performance materially aided his battalion in repelling the attack. Private First Class Wakefield’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.