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 Major (Infantry) Homer Watkins, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 326th Infantry Regiment, 82d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near St. Juvin, France, October 11 – 17, 1918. On the night of 11 October Major Watkins led his battalion under heavy shell fire and forded the Aire River, taking up an important position protecting the flank. On October 14 and 15 he advanced against strongly held enemy positions, penetrating and capturing numerous prisoners and machine-guns. He was wounded on both days, but he continued on duty until 17 October suffering intense pain, until he was ordered to the rear. His fortitude and bravery furnished an inspiring example to his men.