The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private William Albert Vander Voort (ASN: RA-17234635), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team. Private Vander Voort distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Taejon-ni, Korea, on 12 August 1950. While participating in the defense of a strategic terrain feature, Private Vander Voort’s company became engaged in heavy fighting, repulsing a series of attacks launched against the position by a determined enemy. During this action and while repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire, Private Vander Voort was wounded. He was placed in a foxhole for protection against enemy fire and to receive medical treatment. Launching a concerted attack on the company positions a short time later, the enemy lobbed a grenade into the emplacement occupied by Private Vander Voort and an Aidman. As the result of the explosion of the grenade, he lost his life when his body absorbed its full blast. Private Vander Voort’s display of courage, devotion to duty, and inspirational conduct reflect the greatest credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.