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 John R. Manning (ASN: 2848637), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company D, 342d Machine-Gun Battalion, 89th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in the Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 1 November 1918. Disregarding injuries in the face, head, and wrist, Private Manning continued on duty as gunner throughout the action until he was relieved and ordered to an aid station by his platoon commander thereby affording an inspiring example of courage to his comrades.