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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), [then Major] Artice Weldon Elliott (ASN: 0-998993), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action from 21 April 1970 to 26 April 1970, while serving as Senior Advisor, 3d Battalion, 42d Infantry Regiment, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. During this period the 3d Battalion was engaged in combat with elements of the 28th North Vietnamese Army Regiment in the vicinity of Dak Seang Special Forces Camp. Despite heavy direct and indirect fire weapons barrages at the onset of each attack, he would move to a position where he could direct air strikes, gunships, and artillery strikes, disregarding his own safety. He continued to expose himself, on numerous occasions taking the enemy under fire with his own rifle and hand grenades. With all of the advisory team either dead or wounded he assumed an even greater share of the advisory effort, moving about the position advising the Vietnamese Battalion Commander, comforting the wounded, and inspiring the soldiers by his courage and stamina. As the situation became more desperate he took command of the unit and planned an executed breakthrough of the enemy encirclement, staying behind to inspire an orderly withdrawal. He was last seen firing his weapon in an attempt to hold off the enemy so the others could escape. Lieutenant Colonel Elliott’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.