John G. Lally

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to John G. Lally, Sergeant [then Private], U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with the 3d Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against enemy forces on 20 January 1942, in the vicinity of Abucay Hacienda in the Philippine Islands. Sergeant Lally, at the risk of his life, evacuated many of his wounded comrades from the firing line under heavy mortar and incessant sniper fire. Because of Sergeant Lally’s heroism at that time, many were evacuated to a place of safety and some owed their lives to his courageous actions. Sergeant Lally’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the Philippine Scouts, and the United States Army.