Joseph W. Mcconnell
Home Town: Dorchester, MA
Status: KIA
Distinguished Service Cross
World War I
U.S. Army
General Orders No. No. 17, W.D., 1928
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Joseph W. McConnell, Captain, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in Trugny Woods, France, July 20, 1918. While commanding the 1st Battalion, 101st Infantry, Captain McConnell encountered concentrated enemy machine-gun fire. Without regard for his own personal safety he reconnoitered in person in advance of his own lines, and located heavily entrenched machine-gun positions. Returning he so directed the fire of his own battalion that it and the elements on the right and left were able to advance. He led his battalion successfully through the attack and by his coolness and leadership was an inspiration to his men. Captain McConnell was killed in action on September 12, 1918.