The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant James J. Furlong (ASN: US-54817801), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 2d Battalion, 14th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division. Sergeant Furlong distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 3 January 1969 as a squad leader on a reconnaissance-in-force mission during an engagement with a platoon of enemy troops. When his company commander was struck by a flying missile, Sergeant Furlong immediately moved to a position from which he could provide covering fire for several men who went to assist the injured officer. Suddenly one of the communists threw a grenade that landed in the midst of the group gathered around the commander. Completely disregarding his safety, Sergeant Furlong shouted a warning and lunged on the grenade in an attempt to save the lives of his comrades. By allowing himself to be grievously wounded, he prevented serious injury to his fellow soldiers. Sergeant Furlong’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.