By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Corporal William A. Layden (ASN: 1453824), 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. Corporal Layden distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 138th Infantry Regiment, 35th Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Cheppy, France, 26 September 1918. Corporal Layden fearlessly ran through a storm of the enemy fire to better direct his men, who had become separated during the barrage which the enemy threw over. Through his disregard of fear and excellent work he encouraged his comrades and enabled them to join the remainder of the platoon.