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 Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class Edmo Earle Merkel, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as Corpsman (Attached), Company F, Fifth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F., near Blanc Mont, France, October 3 – 4, 1918. Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class Merkel accompanied a company of Marines during an advance under violent fire, going to all parts of the line, giving first aid to wounded and directing their evacuation. Although wounded, he remained on duty until forced to go to the rear.