(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Sterling S. Burnette (ASN: 0-383615), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Han-sur-Neid, France, on 11 November 1944. Realizing the strategic importance of the last remaining bridge spanning the Neid River, Lieutenant Colonel Burnette fearlessly braved enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire, attacking with the foremost elements of his point company to capture and hold the only bridge left intact across the flooded Neid river until he fell, mortally wounded with shots to the had and chest. His men, inspired by their gallant commander’s heroic example fought furiously, closing with the enemy to seize the vital river crossing. Lieutenant Colonel Burnette’s action enabled the THIRD Army to continue its sweeping drive into the industrially rich Saar basin. His extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 80th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.