David H. Backus

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to David H. Backus, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Landreville, France, October 23, 1918. A patrol of American monoplace planes attacked an enemy formation of superior number. Flying rear position, Lieutenant Backus maneuvered above the attack to prevent other enemy planes from assisting their companions. In the midst of the combat he saw three planes escaping from battle. He immediately gave chase and attacked and shot down all three of the enemy.

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to David H. Backus, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Etain, France, September 26, 1918. Lieutenant Backus was one of a patrol of five monoplanes that were attacked by nine enemy planes (Fokker type) in a superior position. The American patrol leader, seeing the futility of giving combat, turned toward our lines with the enemy in close pursuit. One of our patrol, however, fell behind, and the enemy planes dove upon him. Lieutenant Backus, although beyond danger, seeing the predicament of his comrade, turned, and alone attacked the enemy, destroying one and dispersing the others.