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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Leroy A. Bastron, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 363d Infantry Regiment, 91st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Barchetta, Italy, on 17 April 1945. Lieutenant Bastron led his depleted platoon through an enemy mine field, directing them through machine gun, automatic rifle, and sniper fire, and succeeded in occupying positions on a vital terrain feature. With the Germans entrenched to command excellent fields of fire, Lieutenant Bastron moved about encouraging his men and checking their defenses for weak spots. Noticing two Germans advancing toward his position, he calmly stood up and shot them both. At dusk a counterattack was formed by the enemy to dislodge his group and, firing as they advanced, the Germans approached to within hand grenade range from three sides. Standing upright and shouting encouragement, Lieutenant Bastron led his men in withstanding the assault. Throughout the night each enemy thrust was fought off and considerable losses were inflicted on the enemy. Running low on ammunition, Lieutenant Bastron ordered his men to sue rocks, simulating hand grenades, to repulse the enemy. When two relief tanks finally reached his position, disregarding enemy fire, he led the armored vehicles, directing their fire as they methodically destroyed all German resistance. First Lieutenant Bastron’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 91st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.