By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Private First Class William F. Darby (ASN: 1528551), United States Army, is cited for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Private First Class Darby distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Cruyshautein, Belgium, 31 October 1918. Private Darby showed great initiative and presence of mind in assuming command of his platoon after the officer and all the non-commissioned officers has been killed or wounded.