Walter T. Collins

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Walter T. Collins, Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism on 15 July 1918 while serving as a sniper with the 1st Battalion, 165th United States Infantry in Jonchery, France during the Champaigne Defensive. Colonel Collins was first to respond to a call for volunteers to carry a message through open terrain swept by machine gun fire and a heavy artillery bombardment of high explosives and gas shells. Although badly gassed, and at one time knocked down by the concussion of high explosive shells, Colonel Collins rescued two wounded comrades, carrying each in turn through the heavy bombardment to a position of safety in the town of Jonchery. Severely gassed during the perilous mission, and nearly exhausted from his efforts in rescuing his wounded comrades, Colonel Collins, nevertheless, refused all medical aid until he delivered his message. His splendid courage and resourcefulness materially aided in consolidating the unit’s position without further losses. Colonel Collins’ selfless actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon him the 165th Infantry and the United States Army.

Department of the Army General Orders No. 30, (1980)