The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Jesse M. Barton, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 118th Infantry Regiment, 30th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Becquigny, France, 17 October 1918. After his superior officer had been wounded, Second Lieutenant Barton assumed command of and personally led the advance of his unit until he was struck by an enemy shell and severely wounded. Although suffering intense pain and almost unconscious, he refused to be evacuated until after he had given instructions to the platoon sergeant to continue the advance. His gallant conduct was an inspiring example to the men of his platoon.