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 Captain (Infantry) Sheldon M. Dannelly (ASN: 0-373430), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company A, 1st Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces along the Villa Verde Trail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 4 and 5 March 1945. Captain Dannelly’s company was preparing to attack heavily-fortified positions blocking the trail and planes were bombing and strafing to soften up enemy strong points. Two bombs fell short, one of them burying five soldiers in the company’s area. Taking advantage of the confusion, the enemy immediately brought a heavy machinegun to bear and swept the area with heavy fire. Disregarding the danger, Captain Dannelly left the safety of his command post, seized a shovel and ran 50 yards through a hail of bullets to the buried men. At once the enemy concentrated their fire on him. Determined to save his men, the gallant officer began to dig desperately to reach them until he was instantly killed. One of his men, inspired by his commander’s example, took over and rescued three of the buried men before he, also, was killed. Captain Dannelly’s outstanding leadership, 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 and the United States Army.