(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 Sergeant Francis James Blais (ASN: 31109585), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 87th Mountain Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, in action against an armed enemy at Mount Serra, Italy on 17 April 1945. While leading an attack, all the men in his squad were killed. Picking up a machine gun, Sergeant Blais advanced alone in the face of heavy enemy fire until his ammunition was exhausted. Then taking up a German machine-gun, he assaulted an enemy strong point, capturing 35 prisoners himself and causing another 150 of the enemy to surrender. His extraordinary heroism and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.