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 First Class Ora B. Brooks (ASN: 3355974), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, during the attack on Hill 272, north of Exermont, France, October 8 to 12, 1918. Private Brooks, as a runner, carried messages through artillery and machine-gun fire. He was of great value to his company commander, as he was at all times performing tasks involving great hazard. On one occasion he advanced beyond the lines and located an enemy machine gun, returned to our lines, secured a squad, and gallantly assisted in the capture of the gun and crew.