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 Allie B. Whittington (ASN: 13018399), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 503d Parachute Infantry Regiment (Separate), in action against enemy forces near Lae, New Guinea, on 15 September 1943. While moving along a lightly wooded ridge to outflank an enemy force holding a small native village, Staff Sergeant Whittington’s platoon was attacked from the rear by a 35-man Japanese patrol. Instead of seeking cover, Staff Sergeant Whittington, who was the last man in the platoon, sent a warning to the platoon leader and then alone stood off the enemy long enough to allow his fellow soldiers time to prepare for the attack. His effective fire immediately killed three of the enemy and secured for his platoon the necessary interval for deployment. Staff Sergeant Whittington was mortally wounded at his post, but his quick thinking and gallant conduct saved his platoon from grave danger. Staff Sergeant Whittington’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 and the United States Army.