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 Sergeant Mike Baranek (ASN: 35026946), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment (Separate), FIFTH U.S. Army, in action against enemy forces on 11 November 1943, near Venafro, Italy. During an assault against a heavily-fortified enemy position on Mount Croce, Sergeant Baranek, an Infantry communications sergeant, volunteered to accompany an officer and another enlisted man in the perilous task of clearing enemy land mines and booby traps from the route of advance. This dangerous mission was accomplished in the face of heavy small arms and artillery fire. Advancing to the top of Mount Croce, Sergeant Baranek and his two companions encountered an enemy machine gun threatening the leading element and delaying the advance. Under heavy fire from snipers, machineguns and artillery, the three men assaulted the position, killed the crew and destroyed the weapon. Observing a second machinegun firing nearby, Sergeant Baranek and his companions made a second assault and captured or killed the gun crew and protecting riflemen. Sergeant Baranek then set up the captured weapon and placed it in action against the enemy. Sergeant Baranek’s extraordinary heroism, 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.