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 Private Carlton C. Bates, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 2d Infantry Regiment, 5th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Amanvillers, France, on 11 September 1944. Under an intense barrage of mortar and small arms fire, the enemy launched a fierce counterattack of undetermined strength against our forces causing them to withdraw, leaving our right flank completely exposed. When his squad’s position was overrun by the enemy, Private Bates, an assistant automatic gunner, remained at his gun position and without hesitation o thought of personal safety fired continuously until the gun was jammed by a ruptured cartridge. Private Bates’ 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.