Ernest L. Brown

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Ernest L. Brown, Captain, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Company L, 3d Battalion, 57th Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against enemy forces on 12 January 1942, at Bataan, Philippine Islands. On that date Captain Brown led his men across a dangerous stretch of rice paddies and launched a counterattack. He placed himself at the head of the assault wave and drove forward in the fierce resistance and completely routed the enemy. Captain Brown’s gallant leadership, 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, his unit, and the United States Army.