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 Russel Ford (ASN: 1837571), 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 First Class Ford distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with 305th Trench Mortar Battery, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Cunel, France, 10 October 1918, while on duty as a messenger and guide.