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 Major (Infantry) James O. Cathcart, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Gesnes, France, October 14 – 19, 1918. Finding two companies of another battalion badly disorganized, Major Cathcart effected a reorganization and ordered them to advance, personally assuming command of these troops of his own battalion, which, had been in support, and of another battalion. He conducted the successful attack on Cote Dame Marie, exhibiting extraordinary initiative and bravery and showing utter disregard of his own personal danger.