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 Robert S. Birkinshaw, British Expeditionary Forces, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 1st Battalion, Sest Yorkshire Regiment, British Expeditionary Forces, at Selency, France, 24 September 1918. Sergeant Birkinshaw repeatedly led attacks against a strongly defended barricade at the entrance to Selency. The ultimate capture of this position was due to the determination and personal gallantry of this noncommissioned officer. This action took place when fighting alongside the American 27th Division.