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 First Sergeant Melvin R. Hewitt (ASN: ER-56211327), 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, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. First Sergeant Hewitt distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 May 1968. His company’s camp was assaulted by a regiment-size North Vietnamese Army force supported by rockets, mortars and artillery, Immediately taking command of a recoilless rifle position, Sergeant Hewitt directed devastating fire which severely damaged the enemy emplacements. The aggressors countered with a savage rocket attack on his position and the gun pit took a direct hit, seriously wounding all the team members. Although injured, he continued to load and fire the weapon by himself until it became inoperable. He then led a small force against the main enemy assault element, deploying his men inside a sump and directing rifle fire and grenades at the onrushing attackers. Suddenly, a North Vietnamese soldier charged the emplacement and hurled a grenade amid him and his troops. With total disregard for his own life, Sergeant Hewitt rolled over and smothered the blast with his legs to protect his comrades. Despite excruciating pain, he insisted on staying in his position until the last enemy attack was driven off. First Sergeant Hewitt’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.