By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Private Ernest J. Kruse (ASN: 2059168), 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 Kruse distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with Machine Gun Company, 132d Infantry Regiment, 33d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Breiulles, France, 9 October 1918. Although badly gassed he remained in the line and helped the wounded.