By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Sergeant John R. Kearny (ASN: 551699), United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the World War I Victory Medals awarded him. While serving with Company I, 38th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, during the German attack on the Marne, 15 July 1918, Sergeant Kearny showed particular courage in keeping his platoon organized during the heavy barrage. He repeatedly exposed himself and by his example of coolness succeeded in holding a difficult position under heavy shell fire.