The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Gerard Michael Devlin (ASN: 0‐5301956), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connec tion with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. During the period 13‐14 October 1965, Captain Devlin served as Senior Advisor to the 44th Ranger Battalion, Army of the Republic of Vietnam, which was occupying a defensive position along a thickly wooded canal in the vicinity of Thoi Lai, Republic of Vietnam, in connection with Operation DAN CHI 171. As the Ranger Battalion began to deploy in a defensive perimeter, the Viet Cong launched a surprise three‐pronged attack supported by intense small arms and automatic weapons fire and extremely accurate mortar and grenade barrages. Realizing the tactical superiority which the insurgents held in this specific area, the Ranger Battalion Commander began implementing a strategic withdrawal to regroup and consolidate his forces. During the course of this action, he was mort ally wounded, leaving the hardpressed Rangers without a leader. Although Captain Devlin had been seriously injured by the concussion effects of an exploding mortar round, he immediately perceived the threat of panic and confusion among the Rangers who were all but leaderless by this time. Disregarding his own personal injuries and safety, Captain Devlin personally directed, under intense hostile fire, the regrouping of the Ranger contingent and their occupation of a tactically defendable position. Despite intense pain from his injuries, Captain Devlin again directed a successful defense which ultimately contained the strong insurgent attack. Captain Devlin’s extraordinary heroism and gallantry in action, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Captain Devlin passed away on 11 November 2016.