Jesse M. Barton

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Jesse M. Barton, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Becquigny, France, October 17, 1918. After his superior officer had been wounded, Second Lieutenant Barton assumed command of and personally led the advance of his unit until he was struck by an enemy shell and severely wounded. Although suffering intense pain and almost unconscious, he refused to be evacuated until after he had given instructions to the platoon sergeant to continue the advance. His gallant conduct was an inspiring example to the men of his platoon.