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 Commander (MC) Paul T. Dessez, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism as Regimental Surgeon, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action at Chateau-Thierry, France, 6 June 1918. Commander Dessez organized the service of caring for and evacuating the wounded in a most systematic and admirable manner, constantly exposing himself to the enemy, displaying extraordinary heroism, coolness and energy.