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 First Class John Vernie Folsom (ASN: 2258313), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 361st Infantry Regiment, 91st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in Bois-Cummunal-de-Cierges, east of Exmorieux Ferme, France, 28 September 1918. His company, checked by a heavy barrage of machine gun and artillery fire, with gas shells interspersed, Private Folsom volunteered to carry an important message from his company commander to the commander of an artillery unit. With great gallantry he accomplished his mission in the face of intense enemy fire. He was killed in action on 10 October 1918, fighting for Hill 255. His high courage and splendid soldierly qualities were important factors in the operations of his company, and inspired his comrades to great endeavors.