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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert Winkler (ASN: 0-1288660), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 161st Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near the Munda Airfield, New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 2 August 1943. After brilliantly leading his platoon, which had been advancing since dawn in determined stabs against the enemy’s well-concealed last stand near Bilbolo Hill, First Lieutenant Winkler insisted on staying on to take command of fresh troops sent in while mortar fire was being concentrated on the Japanese guns. Leading an assault, he was wounded but continued to direct the disposition of the platoon while lying exposed to heavy fire. Working his way to the rear, he sketched the situation to the battalion commander and, familiar with characteristics of the mission, insisted once again on leading another reserve platoon into position. Tired and with his painful leg wounds hastily bandaged, Lieutenant Winkler stayed in the fight until he had pointed out the position of the enemy to his men and when he had done all that he could, he was evacuated for surgical treatment. First Lieutenant Winkler’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, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.