By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Private William J. Cooper (MCSN: 107900/306111), United States Marine Corps, is cited by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Private Cooper distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 6th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action at Blanc Mont Ridge, France, 5 October 1918, in aiding in the capture of an enemy strong point.