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 Joseph Vercruysse (AKA: Joseph Camille Hempe) (ASN: 1646636), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 306th Infantry Regiment, 77th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, at St. Juvin, France, 15 October 1918. Private Vercruysse volunteered and carried a message to supporting troops through an intense barrage, displaying courage and persistent devotion to duty. This message was of vital importance in connection with the capture of St. Juvin.