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 Lieutenant Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Francis Kosier Newcomer, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 4th Engineers, 4th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Fismes, France, 5 August 1918. Lieutenant Colonel Newcomer made a reconnaissance along the south bank of the Vesle River in advance of the front lines for the purpose of selecting a bridge site. He then led a small party of engineers, assisted in the work of removing the German entanglements, and constructing a foot bridge across the Vesle River, completing this work in the face of fire of great intensity. His coolness and personal bravery afforded an inspiring example to the men of his command.