(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Technician Fifth Grade Edward S. Withee (ASN: 31320179), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 81st Engineer Combat Battalion, 106th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 16 December 1944. When his platoon was pinned down in a house near Schonberg, Germany, in the face of intense and direct 88-mm. gun fire from four Tiger tanks less than thirty yards away, and small arms fire from a strong enemy infantry forcej, Technician Fifth Grade Withee voluntarily remained at his post, firing his submachine gun to cover the movement of his comrades to more effective positions. Against overwhelming odds Technician Fifth Grade Withee poured withering fire into the German ranks, enabling his platoon to occupy new positions without casualties.
When last seen, Technician Fifth Grade Withee was still pouring fire into the enemy. Technician Fifth Grade Withee’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.