James H. Leach
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 42 (1945)
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to James H. Leach, Captain (Armor), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 37th Tank Battalion, 4th Armored Division, in action against enemy forces on 26 December 1944, during the Ardennes Offensive. While attacking elements of the German 5th Parachute Division, Captain Leach was twice wounded, once in the head and once in the arm. Despite this he tenaciously maintained contact with the enemy, leading his team of tanks and armored infantry through the village to accomplish its seizure mission. Captain Leach’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 4th Armored Division, and the United States Army.
