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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) George William Butler (ASN: 0-460088), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 158th Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 41st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the Wakde-Sarmi Area, Dutch New Guinea, on 11 June 1944. First Lieutenant Butler volunteered to lead an assault against the enemy who were of an undetermined strength in a well-defended area, within one hundred yards of our defensive line. Boldly, aggressively, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he led his men in a well organized and successful attack. Near the close of the action and while still preceding his men in their advance and aggressively pressing the assault, he was killed. The courageous and gallant leadership of First Lieutenant Butler was an inspiration to his men and resulted in the complete destruction of the entrenched enemy. First Lieutenant Butler’s 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 and the United States Army.