Robert J. Kline

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Robert J. Kline, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Gesnes, northwest of Verdun, France, October 5, 1918. Picking up a light Maxim gun and ammunition left by the retreating enemy, he advanced in front of his company’s line and supported it with enfilading fire so effectively that he was soon made the target of many German guns. With the utmost coolness and entire disregard for his own safety, he continued to give appreciable support with his captured gun until he was killed by the hostile machine-gun fire. His example of bravery and audacity was an inspiration to the whole command.