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 Staff Sergeant Wardie Barnett (ASN: 15011532), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 5th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized), 5th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Avrille, France, on 8 August 1944. Reconnaissance Troops were bringing up fuel and rations to the forward units when the leading armored vehicle was blown up by a mine, throwing members of the crew to the roadway where they lay wounded and unconscious. Risking his life, Sergeant Barnett ran forward through a hail of enemy fire to aid his comrades. He and a gunner endeavored to free another enlisted man who was pinned in the turret of the armored car. The gunner was killed by enemy fire and Sergeant Barnett continued alone. He then assisted in carrying other wounded men from the roadway to a place of safety. Staff Sergeant Barnett’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, the 5th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.