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 Captain (Infantry) George W. Carter, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company as Executive Officer of the 1st Battalion, 382d Infantry Regiment, 96th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Shoestring Ridge, Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 19 November 1944. Captain Carter had taken the lead in an Infantry Company struggling through jungle terrain when it was hit by enemy fire. Captain Carter moved forward, struggling through dense undergrowth, until he spotted an enemy pillbox from which machine gun fire was directed at the Infantrymen. He charged the pillbox and used grenades to knock it out. As he looked around, Captain Carter realized that his command was outnumbered by the enemy. Deciding to return to the company, he had begun the return journey when he was struck by enemy fire in the foot. Under direct sniper fire, he disregarded his painful wound and directed an artillery barrage on the enemy positions he had identified. Hearing a cry from help from a wounded man, Captain Carter, himself now wounded a second time, went to his aid. After applying first aid while under fire, Captain Carter carried the wounded man, despite his own severe wounds, to safety before allowing the medical staff to treat his own wounds. Captain Carter’s outstanding leadership, 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 96th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.