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) William Jennings Coyle, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 363d Infantry Regiment, 91st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Cheppy, France, 26 September 1918. While on duty as liaison officer, Captain Coyle observed a strongly fortified enemy trench, which was a menace to further advance. He organized a group of 14 men, and in the face of heavy machine-gun and sniper fire led them in an attack on the trench. Through his quick decision and courage the hostile position was captured with 52 prisoners, 3 heavy and 2 light machine gun.