By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Harry Oakes, 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. Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Oakes distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 53d Infantry, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near Sondernach, Gerardmer Sector, France, 16 September 1918, while leading a patrol under fire.