(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 First Class Edward M. Bell, Jr. (ASN: 32949700), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 25th Armored Engineer Combat Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 30 March 1945. Private First Class Bell braved direct enemy artillery, machine gun and rifle fire to remove demolition charges from a bridge prepared by the Germans. While continuing his self-assigned job, he was wounded and fell from the bridge. Through his conspicuous courage and gallantry, Private Bell enabled the task force to go forward and complete its mission. Private First Class Bell’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.