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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Walter L. Shirley, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 18 October 1918. Going forward to the outpost line on a reconnaissance mission, First Lieutenant Shirley was wounded, but, upon receiving first-aid treatment, returned to his position within 30 yards of the enemy, and, although under heavy fire, continued his observations until he had obtained the desired information.