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 Sergeant James W. Willford, United States Army, for great coolness and good judgment displayed in commanding a battery when ambushed by natives near Basey, Samar, Philippine Islands, 1 September 1901, while serving as a member of Company G, 9th Infantry Regiment.