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 Frank C. Gerling (ASN: 1937573), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on Hill 253, Meuse-Argonne offensive, France, 8 and 9 October 1918. Private Gerling carried numerous messages over a dangerous and hazardous route, which was constantly swept by machine-gun and artillery fire. Due to his efforts the company was able to maintain communication with the battalion and with the platoons in advance.