ir guns--small cause for
surprise is it that the American boys fail to appreciate the "blessings"
of autocracy or are determined that the brutality and aims of all war
lords shall forever perish from the earth.

Then, too, his personal interest in the young American fighter who has
done something to deserve recognition is one of his elements of
strength. There must, however, first have been given an indication that
the deed was worthy of praise--for General Pershing's commendation is
not cheap nor does he scatter it promiscuously. The following incident
may be looked upon as typical.

John Kulolski, born in Poland, emigrant to the United States, enlisted
at Buffalo, New York, June 7, 1916. In the following year, on his
birthday, he reenlisted and on the same month and day in 1918 he was
sent to the trenches. Indeed, he declared that his birthday "always
brought something great into his life." His first service in the army
was as a cook, but at his own request he was transferred to the fighting
forces. Cooking might be necessary, but it was "too slow for him." Soon
in the Bois de Belleau he found his opportunity. The fighting was savage
and John Kulolski's company was in peril from a nearby gunners' nest.
Suddenly, without orders and with the new spirit of initiative which had
been acquired by the young Pole in America, he darted ahead alone, and
by the sheer force of his own impetuous act charged the gun and made
prisoners of the gun crew and its officer. Doubtless his very daring
caused his enemies to believe that he was not alone but was one of many
who were about to attack them. At all events the Germans surrendered to
John Kulolski and his bravery was quickly known all along the line.

To him as soon as he heard of his daring deed General Pershing sent the
following telegram from headquarters:

"For Private Kulolski, Company (deleted).

"I have just heard of your splendid conduct on
June 6th when you alone charged a gun, captured it
and its crew, together with an officer. I have
awarded you the Distinguished Service Cross. I
congratulate you.

"PERSHING."

Who does not know that Kulolski's deed and the commander's quick and
personal as well as official recognition of the heroism of this private
soldier at once aroused a spirit of gratitude and enthusiasm not only in
the heart of the young Pole, but also cau