By Direction

of the

President of the United States

the

Distinguished Service Cross

Is Awarded 

to

David J. Moncavage

(Posthumously)

Rank and Organization:  Private First Class, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry, 25th Infantry Division

Date and Place:  14 February 1968, 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 Moncavage distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 14 February 1968 as medical corpsman of a mechanized infantry battalion conducting a search and destroy mission near Cu Chi.  The battalion was savagely attacked by an enemy force of unknown size firing automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades from entrenched positions.  Braving an intense hail of bullets and flying shrapnel. Private Moncavage moved throughout the battlefield and rendered emergency medical treatment to wounded soldiers.  When he had aided all the casualties in his platoon, he continued to exposed himself to the enemy's raking fire as he administered skillful aid to wounded comrades of other platoons in his company.  Private Moncavage then raced across a wide, open area of bullet-swept terrain and resumed his lifesaving mission for another company which had suffered heavy casualties.  After all the wounded had been treated, he rejoined his platoon and gallantly volunteered to serve as an infantryman to help suppress the relentless enemy fire.  Private Moncavage was mortally wounded while destroying a fortified enemy bunker with a hand grenade.  His fearless and dedicated efforts in close combat saved the lives of many fellow soldiers.  Private First Class Moncavage's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.