The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Esteban Pena Estrada (ASN: US-54404330), 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 C, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. Private First Class Estrada distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 29 January 1968 as machine gunner of an infantry company on a search and destroy operation in hostile territory. While moving through dense woods, his unit came under ravaging enemy fire from well-fortified and concealed positions. The fire was so intense it forced his comrades to take immediate cover. Disregarding his personal safety, Private Estrada ignored the bullets striking all around him and took up an exposed position. Although the Viet Cong focused their fire on him, he unflinchingly retained his position and delivered a devastating fusillade on the determined attackers. His withering fire prevented the insurgents from mounting a sustained assault on his unit. He was critically wounded by enemy fire but continued his fierce fight until his company regrouped and successfully counterattacked against the numerically superior Viet Cong. Private First Class Estrada’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.