By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), First Lieutenant (Infantry) Harold K. Downe, 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 as Gas Officer of the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, during the German thrust across the Marine on 15 July 1918, near Mezy, France, Lieutenant Downe without regard for his own personal safety made frequent visits during the darkness to his observation and sentry posts which were located in a woods filled with gas and under a terrific bombardment, thus furnishing his Battalion Commander with valuable information. He encouraged his men by his presence and advice and there being no medical officer present, he assisted in the care for the wounded in addition to his other duties and succeeded in saving the lives of many men.