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) John Cannon Vann, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 47th Infantry Regiment, 4th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Bazoches, France, 7 August 1918. Lieutenant Vann concealed the fact that he was wounded and led the advance platoon of his company to their objectives despite heavy losses. He remained with his command, displaying the highest leadership and courage, until he was wounded a second time.