By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Sergeant Joseph C. Hurd, United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Sergeant Hurd distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 28th Infantry, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action during the operations connected with the capture and defense of Cantigny, France, 27 to 31 May 1918. Sergeant Hurd displayed conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in maintaining three observation posts under his command; when these posts were first destroyed he dug his men out and partially repaired the posts; when they were knocked out the second time he and his men climbed trees and continued their observation until forced to descend by shrapnel fire; he then posted his men in a disabled tank, continuing to send back valuable information.