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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Charles Loyd Jackson (ASN: 0-21207), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy France, on 8 June 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Jackson’s battalion was struck by a terrific counterattack from a full strength enemy motorized machine gun battalion supported by heavy artillery fire. The withering fire took a disastrous toll of casualties, especially among officers, and his battalion wavered. Immediately, Lieutenant Colonel Jackson began to move among his men, standing upright and exposed, and in imminent risk of his life. Encouraged by his words and his courageous example, his men rallied and stood firm. Having restored the shattered line, Lieutenant Colonel Jackson personally directed an artillery concentration from the foremost lines in an exposed position. After two and a half hours of bitter fighting, the counterattack was broken, the enemy fell back and Lieutenant Colonel Jackson led his battalion in the pursuit of the fleeing Germans. The inspiring leadership, calm judgment, and unflinching bravery of Lieutenant Colonel Jackson in this difficult and dangerous situation exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.