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 Private First Class Edward W. A. Dietz (ASN: 2176527), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 314th Engineers, 89th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Bantheville, France, November 6 – 7, 1918. Private Dietz accompanied an officer on a reconnaissance of the bridge at Pouilly, and the road from Pouilly to Inor. Successfully reaching the river, he crossed, an act which had not been done by any troops previously. Re-crossing under heavy enemy fire, he made his way to Pouilly, collecting on his way most valuable information and data for engineer work. Just as they approached their destination he was wounded, the officer with him being killed. When darkness set in, he returned and supplied most valuable information regarding the reconnaissance.