The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross, in lieu of a previously issued Certificate of Merit and Distinguished Service Medal, to First Sergeant John O’Rourke, United States Army, for distinguished service in action while serving as a member of Company C, 17th Infantry Regiment, in battle the at El Caney, Cuba, 1 July 1898.