Irvin Alexander

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Irvin Alexander (0-12414), Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Quartermaster Corps, Philippine Scouts, in action against enemy forces on 27 January 1942, near Agloloma Bay, Bataan, Philippine Islands. During an attack to expel an enemy landing party near Agloloma Bay, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander, then on duty with the 1st Regiment, Philippine Constabulary, learning that a company commander had been wounded and that the company was without an officer, went forward to assume command in person. On arrival, he found the unit disorganized and by setting a personal example of courage, pushed the company forward in the face of heavy fire to within thirty-five yards of the enemy positions. In spite of the concentration of the heaviest fire in his vicinity he continued to expose himself, encouraging and steadying his men, although severely wounded in t he hand and struck in the chest, continuing to display courageous leadership until he collapsed from shock and fatigue. Lieutenant Colonel Alexander’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the Philippine Scouts, and the United States Army.