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 Captain (Infantry) Harrison S. Beecher, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 347th Machine-Gun Battalion, 91st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Gesnes, France, 29 September 1918. Although suffering from a gunshot wound in the leg, Captain Beecher continued to lead his company in the attack. Later he was again wounded but continued in active command until exhausted and ordered by his superior officer to be evacuated. His fearless conduct and example were an inspiration to his officers and men.