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 Major (Infantry) Billy Elmer Fritts (ASN: 0-39276), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with an Infantry Battalion of the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Major Fritts distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sokkogae, Korea, on the afternoon of 11 July 1953. On that date, Major Fritts voluntarily elected to remain with a battalion which was relieving his unit in defense of an outpost. Recognizing the need for accurate artillery fire on the attacking enemy, Major Fritts proceeded through an intense barrage to an exposed observation post. While he was calling in effective fire on the hostile forces, his bunker was subjected to heavy shelling by a large caliber enemy gun. It was apparent that destruction of the bunker was inevitable, but Major Fritts, although knocked from his feet several times, continued to direct deadly fire into the ranks of the attacking force. A direct hit finally destroyed the bunker and Major Fritts was killed instantly. Through his courageous and completely selfless actions, Major Fritts had inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and contributed materially to the successful evacuation of the position and the saving of many lives. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Major Fritts on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.