By Direction

of the

President of the United States

The

Distinguished Service Cross

Is Awarded

To

Mitchell Davis

Rank and Unit:  Private First Class, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 8th Cavalry, 3d Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division

Date and Place:  6 March 1970,  Republic of Vietnam

Reason:  For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam:  Private First Class Davis distinguished himself while serving as medical aidman during a reconnaissance patrol in Tay Ninh Province.  As his platoon was crossing a clearing, it was ambushed by a hostile force firing B-40 rockets, automatic weapons, and claymore anti-personnel mines.  the initial onslaught was concentrated primarily at the lead squad, inflicting numerous friendly casualties.  Braving the barrage of enemy bullets, Private Davis darted across the fire-swept area to the location of the downed men.  Immediately the private began administering first aid to his comrades' wounds.  Then, amid the unrelenting spray of hostile bullets, Private Davis dragged several of the severely wounded troops to a nearby position of relative safety.  Meanwhile, the private's platoon had established a defensive perimeter around the casualties and were fighting to repel the repeated belligerent charges.  As the determined enemy attempted to overrun the allied position, Private Davis continued to treat his patients despite the hazards surrounding him.  Private Davis's intrepidity in the face of the enemy served as an inspiration to his comrades and rallied the friendly force in its successful resistance of the hostile assault.  Private First Class Davis's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.