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 Corporal Robert J. Hassard (ASN: 39107), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Vierzy, France, 18 July 1918. Corporal Hassard led his squad in the attack with conspicuous bravery and utter disregard for his own safety. Although wounded three times, he refused to go to the rear for medical attention and remained at his post on the firing line until his company was relieved the following night. Throughout the fight he rendered valuable assistance to his platoon leader, assisted in reorganizing the company after the attack and in preparing the position for the counterattack.