Charles Edward Speer

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Charles Edward Speer, Captain, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Vierzy, France, July 18, 1918. While commanding the 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry, which was held up in crossing a deep ravine by a heavy rifle and machine-gun fire, Captain Speer, with utter disregard for his own safety, although previously wounded while capturing an enemy battery, made a reconnaissance along the front line under heavy rifle, machine- gun, and shellfire to the left flank, where he led his men to the attack, gained the ridge across the ravine, and made possible the advance of the entire line by enfilading the enemy’s position. After gaining the assigned objective, he encouraged and reorganized his command, which had heavy losses, and made a personal reconnaissance under heavy fire in preparation for a further advance. While leading his battalion in the second attack he was severely wounded. Being unable to walk as a result of his wound, he ordered his men to push forward and remained alone as his men, inspired by his example, drove the enemy from their positions and continued to advance.