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 William M. Ferrell (ASN: 794616), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 11th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 5th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Verdun, France, 5 November 1918. While rendering first aid under terrific fire, Private Ferrell was severely wounded. In spite of his injury, he continued to dress the wounds of a comrade, after which he helped him back to the first-aid station. Even after returning, he displayed more interest in the wounds of another than he did in caring for his own wounds.