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 Captain (Infantry) Hersel R. Adams (ASN: 0-283874), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Company of the 141st Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Captain took command of an Infantry Company while that unit was being subjected to terrific fire from mortars, artillery, machine guns, and small arms. Although completely exposed, by exerting forceful leadership he gathered together his troops to safeguard the beach where the remainder of his battalion was landing, and led his company in a charge against assaulting tanks. Wounded in this action, he refused to be evacuated and directed his men to continue their advance. Captain Adams heroic leadership and determination by instilling in his men a profound desire to close with the enemy and defeat him despite all obstacles were responsible for the success of this mission and for the safety of the beach. Being unable to personally accompany his men, Captain Adams remained behind unprotected where he was killed in a subsequent enemy tank attack. His prodigious courage, indefatigable determination and effective leadership, as well as his great personal sacrifice, will always be an inspiration to those who witnessed his unselfish deeds. His unquestionable valor in close combat is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.