By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Private James H. Claybourn (ASN: 2005107), United States Army, 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 Claybourn distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the III Corps Observation Group, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Cunel, France, 26 October 1918. Private Claybourn remained on duty after having been several times blown from his post by the explosion of shells which demolished his observation post.