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 Private Stanley Francis Bates (ASN: 39456295), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 31 July 1943, at New Georgia, Solomon Islands. On the afternoon of 31 July 1943, the platoon of which Private Bates was a member attacked a strong enemy jungle position. Private Bates, one of the platoon scouts, located a well-concealed enemy machine gun that was firing on the platoon. He immediately opened fire and was hit on the left shoulder. Despite this wound, he continued to crawl forward in advance of the platoon and again opened fire in an attempt to neutralize the enemy machine gun. He succeeded in partially destroying the gun grew hen he was killed. Private Bates’ supreme sacrifice permitted the platoon to advance with minimum losses and capture the enemy position. His fearless attitude and devotion to duty was an inspiration to all and was largely responsible for the successful accomplishment of the platoon ‘s mission. 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 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.