Joseph A. Hagan

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Joseph A. Hagan, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving with the 5th Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, A.E.F. in action at Bois-de-Belleau, France, June 6, 1918, when he rescued a platoon sergeant of his regiment from death or capture. In the face of heavy machine-gun and rifle fire Lieutenant Hagan rushed cross an open space of 200 yards under full view of the entrenched enemy forces and within 25 yards of his lines placed the wounded sergeant upon his back and returned under a withering fire to his own lines. His splendid act of devotion to duty and his utter disregard for his own safety inspired the men of his regiment with renewed courage and determination.