On board the U.S.S. Utah, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the seizure of Vera Cruz, Mexico, 21-22 April 1914.
Presented by Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels on the deck of the USS Florida at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Brooklyn, New York.
Additional information on his action comes from U.S. Navy General Order No. 101, dated June 15, 1914: "On the afternoon of April 21 he was placed in charge of a small squad of men and stationed at the corner of a warehouse to eastward of the customhouse. His position was subject to a severe fire from the buildings along Avenida Landero y Cos, and after several hours of well-directed fire he silenced it. On April 22, when a general advance began, he was sent ahead to locate and silence fire from snipers. Being an excellent marksman and notably cool, he was especially selected for this work. Later, when two sections of artillery were sent to join Capt. Anderson's command, he performed similar service and was almost continually under direct fire from the snipers. His services in this connection were of more value than a whole squad... De Somers will be advanced to the next higher rating. To De Somers is extended the privilege of taking the fall examination for either boatswain or gunner, and if he successfully passes same he will be accordingly promoted, as is provided for by article 3661 (l) of the United States Navy Regulations, 1913."