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 Specialist Fourth Class John C. Middleton, 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, 3d Battalion, 1st Infantry, Americal Division. Specialist Four Middleton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 15 March 1969 while serving as radio-telephone operator on a combat sweep mission near Tap An Bac. From well-concealed fortifications among hedges and bamboo groves, the enemy initiated an attack as Specialist Middleton’s unit neared the village. As members of his element provided cover fire, Specialist Middleton maneuvered to a position flanking the enemy and established a cross fire, pinning down the hostile element. When the communists attempted an escape, he delivered a barrage that killed them. The company pressed toward the village, but a hostile machine gun emplacement opened fire. Specialist Middleton assaulted the bunker with grenades and rifle fire, eliminating the occupants. Seeing two men fall to enemy rounds, he aided the rescue of these and other casualties. When his company commander was wounded, Specialist Middleton carried him to the ambulance helicopter amid heavy sniper fire. He then returned to assist a platoon leader in coordinating the movement of the unit elements, resulting in the enemy’s defeat. Specialist Four Middleton’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.