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 Captain (Infantry) Delphin E. Thebaud, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. After the successful attack on Hill 253, Captain Thebaud was directed to establish liaison with the 30th Infantry. Three runners were sent out, but each returned, stating that it was impossible to reach the 30th Infantry, due to the intensity of enemy fire. Captain Thebaud turned over the command of his company and fearlessly exposed himself to heavy machine-gun fire to accomplish the mission. After having proceeded about 300 yards he fell, severely wounded by machine-gun fire. His conduct had a marked effect upon the morale of his men.