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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Melvin H. Leonard, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Soissons, France, 18 July 1918. Although impeded by a very painful wound, Lieutenant Leonard continued to lead his company, through a first and second attack on the enemy, though barely able to walk. Upon gaining his objective he supervised the consolidation of the position, under severe shell fire, and remained until his company was relieved.