The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Will C. Curtis (ASN: 1484824), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near St. Etienne, France, 8 October 1918. While passing through a heavy enemy barrage Private Curtis was mortally wounded, but continued to advance, encouraging his comrades to follow him. His example of courage and fearlessness gave confidence to his comrades and the advance was successful. He later died of his wounds.