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) William Harrison Howard, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, south of Soissons, France, July 18 – 19, 1918. Lieutenant Howard conspicuously distinguished himself by his gallant actions in leading his platoon through two fierce attacks. By his splendid example in facing enemy fire, his platoon fought with the same qualities and succeeded in routing the enemy until the final objective was reached. His personal disregard of consequences to himself under terrific shell fire was noted at all times by his men along the line. Lieutenant Howard was wounded just before his objective was reached.