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 James P. Behan (ASN: 562804), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Battery A, 13th Field Artillery, 4th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Chery-Chartreuve, France, 13 August 1918. Private Behan displayed unusual courage in repairing shattered telephone lines during a heavy barrage, under direct observation by the enemy. He was repeatedly knocked down By concussion of shells, and his helmet was smashed by a bursting shell but he continued at his work until it was completed without seeking medical aid.