Headquarters, Southwest Pacific Area, General Orders No. 63 (December 24, 1942)
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Brigadier General Clovis Ethelbert Byers (ASN: 0-12769), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding General, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Buna, New Guinea, on 15 December 1942. Immediately prior to launching an attack on an enemy position, Brigadier General Byers, without regard to his personal safety, visited the front line troops in close proximity to the enemy and to the impact are of our own preparatory mortar concentration, inspiring the men to a greater effort by his personal example. When the attack was launched, he advanced to a position within fifty yards of the assaulting troops. When wounded by an enemy sniper, he continued observation of the action and encouragement of the troops until he was evacuated. His inspiring example of heroism contributed greatly to the success of the attack Brigadier General Byers’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 32d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.