The U.S. Army and later the U.S. Navy awarded him the Medal of Honor for his bravery on October 3, 1918, at the Battle of Blanc Mont Ridge, France.

[2]For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy at Blanc Mont Ridge, France, October 3, 1918.

Corporal Pruitt single-handed attacked two machine-guns, capturing them and killing two of the enemy.

This gallant soldier was killed soon afterward by shell-fire while he was sniping the enemy.

[3]The United States Navy named a destroyer USS Pruitt in his honor and he was listed in Pershing's 100.