Distingushed Service Cross citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lyman K. Patterson (33042869), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. At the place where Staff Sergeant Patterson's squad landed on the beach, the enemy was well protected by minefields and barbed wire. Heavy enemy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire was placed on the beach and had pinned down the invading force. With complete disregard for his own safety and, in spite of the numerous casualties that this intense enemy fire was inflicting, Staff Sergeant Patterson exposed himself to it in order to encourage and personally lead his men in the attack. This fearlessness of Staff Sergeant Patterson so inspired the troops about him that they vigorously assaulted and overran the enemy positions. The outstanding courage and personal bravery displayed by Staff Sergeant Patterson exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Headquarters, First U.S. Army, General Orders No. 29 (June 29, 1944)