The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) James Henry Lynch (ASN: 0-21237), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of the 3d Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment (Infantry), 1st Cavalry Division. Lieutenant Colonel Lynch distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Hambung-ni, Korea, on 27 September 1950. As Colonel Lynch’s task force moved forward deeper into enemy territory, the motorized column suddenly was intercepted and brought under fire by an enemy force of ten tanks. Having no friendly tanks at his immediate disposal, and realizing that the enemy tanks, if unopposed, would bring about the annihilation of his command, Colonel Lynch, with total disregard for his personal safety, moved forward to effect the reorganization of his then scattered and confused force. Despite the devastating lane of enemy tank and machine-gun fire that was placed on the highway, he directed the placing of a two and a half ton truck across the road as a temporary road block, thus sufficiently retarding the advance of the enemy to allow friendly tanks to move forward from the rear guard position. During the vicious tank battle that ensued, he refused to take cover and moving about openly, organized rocket launcher teams and placed them in position. Through his courageous, aggressive action and superior leadership Lieutenant Colonel Lynch was directly responsible for the total annihilation of an overwhelming enemy force. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Lynch on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.