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 Earl L. Bitting, 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 Battery A, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Private First Class Bitting displayed exceptional courage and resourcefulness near St. Eugene, France, 15 July 1918. After his battery had fired all available ammunition, Private First Class Bitting volunteered to remain behind and to spike the guns if it became necessary. He was at this gun between the fire of the enemy and the French machine guns in their rear. When the enemy was seen approaching he fearlessly fired the round which spiked the gun. Later on 25 October near Brieulles, Meuse, he was grievously wounded while serving his piece.