The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) Herbert Moss Mills (ASN: 0-380638), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 33d Armored Regiment, 3d Armored Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, from 16 to 18 November 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Mills, by a combination of bravery, conspicuous leadership and exceptional tactical ability brilliantly led his task force over difficult terrain, across dense minefields and through devastating enemy fire to secure a vital objective. On the initial day of the assault, one of his tanks was hit blocking the advance of the column through a lane cleared of mines. Lieutenant Colonel Mills dismounted from h is tank, personally directed engineers in clearing another lane and led his force through the minefield. While courageously reorganizing his position, a shell struck within a few feet of him, causing a severe strain of his right leg. Though in much pain, he refused medical aid and continued his reconnaissance on foot to improve his positions. Although he lost all officers of his medium tank companies and thirty-three tanks, Lieutenant Colonel Mills kept his force effectively organized and, in the face of fanatical enemy opposition, captured his objective without infantry support. While Lieutenant Colonel Mills was in the process of communicating with higher headquarters to report that his mission was accomplished, a shell struck the building above his tank, fatally wounding him. By his extraordinary leadership, inspiring valor and selfless devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Mills exemplified the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.