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 Sergeant Edward Shields Willis (ASN: 749550), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 15th Machine-Gun Battalion, 5th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Vieville-en-Haye, in the St. Mihiel salient, France, 12 September 1918. Sergeant Willis displayed great courage, determination, and devotion to duty leading his section forward to its objective, inspiring his men by his coolness under fire. While consolidating his objective he was severely wounded by shrapnel, but remained in command of his section until overcome by weakness and sent to the rear. His example was an inspiration to every soldier of his command.