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 Staff Sergeant John Edward Wade (ASN: 39248950), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in France, on 24 June 1944. Sergeant Wade voluntarily assumed command after his platoon leader was seriously injured in an intense artillery barrage which completely disorganized the platoon and halted its advance. Before he complete the reorganization of his battered, troops, the enemy launched a surprise counterattack in force. Disdaining the withering small arms and automatic weapons fire, Staff Sergeant Wade courageously moved from man to man shouting encouragement and issuing orders to stave off the vicious attack. In a desperate attempt to place his men in more advantageous positions, he deliberately exposed himself to divert the enemy fire. His troops reached their positions in the defense line without injury, but he was mortally wounded by small arms fire. Staff Sergeant Wade’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.