By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Private Joseph Parson (ASN: 2180157), 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 A, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on the Marne, near Mezy, France, on 15 July 1918, Private Parson used his automatic rifle with unusual courage and effectiveness, defending a strong point where he was stationed.