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 Private First Class Alfred Kurz (ASN: RA-19852039), 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 A, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 327th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile). Private First Class Kurz distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 16 April 1968 as a rifleman during a search and clear mission near Phu Bai. While his platoon was moving through dense jungle it encountered heavy enemy fire and the lead man was critically wounded. Private Kurz was second in the formation and although wounded in the initial barrage, he unleashed a heavy volume of retaliatory fire which forced the aggressors to remain under cover. Despite the vicious enemy fusillade he then attempted to carry his stricken comrade to safety. Suddenly an enemy grenade landed within three feet of him and, with complete disregard for his own life, he picked it up and attempted to throw it back at the communists. As he released the deadly missile it detonated, seriously wounding him. His quick action, however, saved the lives of five soldiers who were within ten meters of the grenade. Private First Class Kurz’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.