The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Jesse Gaston, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on 15, 16, and 17 July 1918, near Fossoy, Major Gaston was in command of the forward zone of the Gland sub-sector, the Germans having crossed the Marne River in force in the vicinity of Mezy and threatened to envelope his command. He exercised rare judgment and military skill in disposing his troops so as to inflict heavy losses on the enemy and prevent his infiltration into Fossoy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Gaston, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.