Army Air Service A-K

ABERNATHY, THOMAS J.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 147th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: July 15, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Thomas J. Abernathy, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Vourbin, France, July 15, 1918. Lieutenant Abernathy, while on patrol duty, attacked an enemy plane at close range, firing 100 rounds at a distance of from 50 to 200 yards. He followed the German ship down and saw it fall out of control, and as he turned he found five enemy planes diving at him. Without hesitation he took the offensive and fired 200 rounds into enemy ships at not more than 15 to 20 yards. He observed tracer bullets entering the bodies of the enemy aircraft, but owing to the violence of the combat he did not have time to observe whether any of his force were shot down. Fighting vigorously, he succeeded in dispersing the enemy ships and making a safe landing within his own lines, although his own engine and plane was almost shot to pieces.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: Perry, ME
Home Town: West Pembroke, ME

*ALDRICH, PERRY H.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 135th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 29, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Perry H. Aldrich, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near St. Mihiel, France, October 29, 1918. Lieutenant Aldrich, observer, with First Lieutenant E. C. Landen, volunteered and went on an important mission for the corps commander without the usual protection. Forced to fly at an altitude of 1, 000 meters because of poor visibility, soon after crossing the lines they encountered an enemy Rumpler plane and forced it to the ground. On returning they attacked another Rumpler and drove it off. After completing their mission and seeing an enemy observation tower on Lake Lachaussee, they re-entered enemy territory and fired upon it. Immediately attacked by seven enemy planes (Fokker type), a combat followed in which Lieutenant Aldrich was mortally wounded.
General Orders No. 13, W.D., 1919
Birth: West Kill, NY
Home Town: Essex Junction, VT

ALEXANDER, ARTHUR H.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 96th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 4, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Arthur H. Alexander, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on between Friauville and Lamorville, France, September 4, 1918. While on a bombing expedition with other planes from his squadron Lieutenant Alexander engaged in a running fight over hostile territory with a superior number of enemy battle planes from Friauville to Lamorville, France. He was seriously wounded in the abdomen by a machine-gun bullet, and his observer was shot through the legs. Although weak from pain and loss of blood, Lieutenant Alexander piloted his plane back to his own airdrome and concealed the fact of his injury until after his observer had been cared for.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: Decatur, IL
Home Town: Wellesley, MA

ALEXANDER, STIRLING CAMPBELL
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 99th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 6, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Stirling Campbell Alexander, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Landres-et-St. Georges, France, October 6, 1918. Lieutenant Alexander, with Lieutenant Atwater, observer, on a photographic mission, was forced back by seven enemy pursuit planes. A few minutes later he returned over the lines, and while deep in enemy territory was cut off by 12 enemy planes (Pfalz Scouts). He maneuvered his plane to give battle, and so effectively managed the machine that he with his observer was able to destroy one, and forced the others to withdraw. With his observer severely wounded, he managed to bring his plane safely back to his own aerodrome, with his mission completed.
General Orders No. No. 138, W.D., 1918
Birth: Philadelphia, PA
Home Town: Philadelphia, PA

ALLEN, GARDNER PHILIP
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 8th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 9, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Gardner Philip Allen, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Thiaucourt, France, October 9, 1918. Lieutenant Allen, observer, with First Lieutenant Edward Russell Moore, pilot, took advantage of a short period of fair weather during generally unfavorable atmospheric conditions to undertake a photographic mission behind the German lines. Accompanied by two protecting planes, they had just commenced their mission when they were attacked by eight enemy planes, which followed them throughout their course, firing at the photographic plane. Lieutenant Moore, pilot, with both flying wires cut by bullets, a landing wire shot away, his elevators riddled with bullets, and both wings punctured, continued on the prescribed course, although it made him an easy target. Lieutenant Allen was thus enabled in the midst of the attack to take pictures of the exact territory assigned, and he made no attempt to protect the plane with his machine guns. Displaying entire disregard for personal danger and steadfast devotion to duty, these two officers successfully accomplished their mission.
General Orders No. No. 145, W.D., 1918
Birth: Green Bay, WI
Home Town: Flint, MI

ANDREW, FLYNN LAMBERT ANTHONY
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 104th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 30, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Flynn Lambert Anthony Andrew, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Landres-et-St. Georges, France, October 30, 1918. Unable to complete a photographic mission, owing to motor trouble, Lieutenant Andrew, with his pilot, made a reconnaissance behind the German lines. They dispersed a battalion of enemy troops, and although twice attacked by enemy patrols, drove them off and in each case brought down one enemy plane. They remained in the air until their motor failed completely.
General Orders No. 126, W.D., 1919
Birth: Denver, CO
Home Town: Denver, CO

ARMSTRONG, RODNEY M.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 168th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 4, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Rodney M. Armstrong, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action November 4, 1918. As pilot of a DH-4 plane, Lieutenant Armstrong flew an Infantry contact machine over the lines of the 7th Division November 4, 1918. Owing to low clouds and rain, he crossed the line at 1, 000 feet in order to enable his observer to locate the position more accurately. While on the enemy's side, he was wounded by an explosive bullet. In spite of his wound and weakness, he continued his mission, coming down to within 500 feet of the enemy's machine guns and troops, until his observer had signaled him that the mission was completed.
General Orders 7, W.D., 1919
Birth: Topeka, KS
Home Town: Topeka, KS

ARTHUR, DOGAN H.
(First Award)
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 12th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Dogan H. Arthur, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the St. Mihiel salient September 12, 1918. Lieutenant Arthur, pilot, and Second Lieutenant Howard T. Fleeson, observer, executed a difficult mission of infantry contact patrol, without protection of accompanying battle planes, on the first day of the St. Mihiel offensive. After being driven back twice by a patrol of nine enemy planes, they courageously made a third attempt in the face of a third attack by the same planes, found the American lines, and after being shot down, but falling uninjured in friendly territory, communicated their valuable information to headquarters.
General Orders No. 126, W.D., 1919
Birth: Union, SC
Home Town: Highland Park, MI
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

ATWATER, BENJAMIN L.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 99th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Benjamin L. Atwater, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Landres-et-St. Georges, France, October 5, 1918. Lieutenant Atwater started on a photographic mission with Lieutenant Alexander pilot, over the enemy's lines. Forced back by seven enemy planes, he determined to complete his mission, and re-crossed the line eight minutes later. A large group of enemy pursuit machines again attacked his plane. Disregarding his wound, he operated his machine-gun with such effect that the nearest of the enemy planes was put down out of control.
General Orders No. 1, W.D., 1919
Birth: Redbank, NJ
Home Town: Redbank, NJ

AVERY, WALTER L.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 95th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: July 25, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Walter L. Avery, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action north of Chateau-Thierry, France, July 25, 1918. While on his first patrol over the enemy's lines Lieutenant Avery attacked an enemy two-seater biplane. While thus occupied he was vigorously attacked by another enemy plane, but by a quick turn, skillful maneuvering, and accurate shooting he drove the second plane to the American side of the lines, where it crashed into the woods. Lieutenant Avery's motor was badly damaged by bullets, but he made a successful landing back of our lines, where he learned that the enemy pilot who had been made a prisoner was a German ace credited with 44 victories. Lieutenant Avery's conduct was especially commendable because his plane had been seriously damaged at the beginning of the combat.
General Orders No. No. 12, W.D., 1918
Birth: Columbus, OH
Home Town: Columbus, OH

BABCOCK, PHILIP R.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 88th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 11, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Philip R. Babcock, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fismes, France, August 11, 1918, together with John W. Jordan, second lieutenant, 7th Field Artillery, observer; Roger W. Hitchcock, second lieutenant, pilot; James S. D. Burns, deceased, second lieutenant, 101st Field Artillery, observer; Louis G. Bernheimer, first lieutenant, pilot; James A. Palmer, second lieutenant, 15th Field Artillery, observer; Joel H. McClendon, deceased, first lieutenant, pilot; and Charles W. Plummer, deceased, second lieutenant, 101st Field Artillery, all attached to the same squadron. Under the protection of three pursuit planes, all carrying a pilot and observer, Lieutenants Bernheimer and Jordan, in charge of a photo plane, carried out successfully a hazardous photographic mission over the enemy's lines to the River Aisne. The four American ships were attacked by 12 enemy battle planes, Lieutenant Bernheimer, by coolly and skillfully maneuvering his ship, and Lieutenant Jordan, by accurate operation of his machine-gun, in spite of wounds in the shoulder and leg, aided materially in the victory which came to the American ships, and returned safely with 36 valuable photographs. The pursuit plane operated by Lieutenants Hitchcock and Burns was disabled while these two officers were fighting effectively. Lieutenant Burns was mortally wounded and his body jammed the controls. After a headlong fall of 2, 500 meters, Lieutenant Hitchcock succeeded in regaining control of this plane and piloted it back to the airdrome. Lieutenants McClendon and Plummer were shot down and killed after a vigorous combat with five of the enemy planes. Lieutenants Babcock and Palmer, by gallant and skillful fighting, aided in driving off the German plane and were materially responsible for the successful execution of the photographic mission.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: Lyme, CT
Home Town: Lynn, MA

BACKUS, DAVID H.
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 26, 1918
Citation:
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.
General Orders No. No. 138, W.D., 1918
Birth: St. Paul, MN
Home Town: St. Paul, MN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

BACKUS, DAVID H.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 23, 1918
Citation:
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.
General Orders No. No. 138, W.D., 1918
Birth: St. Paul, MN
Home Town: St. Paul, MN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

BADHAM, WILLIAM T.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 91st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 23, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William T. Badham, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Buzancy, France, October 23, 1918. First Lieutenant Badham gave proof of exceptional bravery while on a photographic mission 25 kilometers within the enemy lines. His plane was attacked, by a formation of 30 enemy aircraft. By skillful work with his machine-gun, Lieutenant Badham successfully repelled the attack and destroyed two German planes. At the same time he manipulated his camera and obtained photographs of great military value.
General Orders 7, W.D., 1919
Birth: 9/27/1895 - Birmingham, AL
Home Town: Birmingham, AL

BAER, PAUL FRANK
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 103d Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: March 11, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Paul Frank Baer, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism on March 11, 1918. First Lieutenant Baer attacked, alone, a group of seven enemy pursuit machines, destroying one, which fell near the French lines northeast of Reims, France. On March 16, 1918, he attacked two enemy two-seaters, one of which fell in flames in approximately the same region.
General Orders No. 128, W.D., 1919
Birth: 1/29/1895 - Fort Wayne, IN
Home Town: Fort Wayne, IN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

BAER, PAUL FRANK
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 103d Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: April 5, 12, & 23, and May 8 & 21, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Paul Frank Baer, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action. First Lieutenant Baer brought down enemy planes on April 5, 12, and 23, 1918, and on May 8, 1918. First Lieutenant Baer destroyed two German machines, and on May 21, 1918, he destroyed his eighth enemy plane.
General Orders No. 128, W.D., 1919
Birth: 1/29/1895 - Fort Wayne, IN
Home Town: Fort Wayne, IN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

BAGBY, RALPH B.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 88th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 2, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Ralph B. Bagby, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Tailly, France, November 2, 1918. Lieutenant Bagby and First Lieutenant Louis G. Bernheimer, pilot, on their own initiative went on a reconnaissance mission, flying 50 kilometers behind the German lines, securing valuable information as to the condition of the bridges across the Meuse River and enemy activity in the back areas and also harassing enemy troops.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: New Haven, MO
Home Town: New Haven, MO

BARTHOLF, HERBERT B.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 103d Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 30 & November 4, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Herbert B. Bartholf, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action, near Ancerville, France, October 30, 1918, and near Baalon, France, November 4, 1918. On October 30, in the region of Ancerville, Lieutenant Bartholf, with one other pilot, engaged five enemy planes. Outnumbered, he did not hesitate to attack, and, although subjected to the severe fire of five enemy planes, he succeeded in destroying one. On November 4, in the region of Baalon, while on a bombing expedition, he encountered an enemy patrol of eight machines, Fokker type. He immediately dived into their formation and, despite the severe fire to which he was subjected, continued a spirited combat with one of the enemy until it crashed to the ground.
General Orders No. 35, W.D., 1919
Birth: Chicago, IL
Home Town: Glencoe, IL

BAUCOM, BYRNE V.
(First Award)
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: June, July, & September 12 - 16, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Byrne V. Baucom, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the Chateau-Thierry and St Mihiel Salients, France. Lieutenant Baucom, with First Lieutenant William P. Erwin, pilot, by a long period of faithful and heroic operations, set an inspiring example of courage and devotion to duty to his entire squadron. Throughout the Chateau-Thierry actions in June and July, 1918, he flew under the worst weather conditions and successfully carried out his missions in the face of heavy odds. In the St. Mihiel sector, September 12-16, 1918, he repeated his previous courageous work. He flew as low as 50 feet from the ground behind the enemy's lines, harassing German troops with machine guns. He twice drove off enemy planes which were attempting to destroy an American observation balloon. On September 12-13, 1918, he flew at extremely low altitudes and carried out infantry contact patrols successfully. Again on September 12 he attacked a German battery, forced the crew to abandon it, shot off his horse a German officer who was trying to escape, drove the cannoneers to their dugouts, and kept them there until the infantry could come up and capture them.
General Orders 64, W.D., 1919
Birth: Milford, TX
Home Town: Milford, TX
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

BAUCOM, BYRNE V.
(Second Award)
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Byrne V. Baucom, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Sedan, France, November 5, 1918. With atmospheric conditions such that flying was nearly impossible, Captain Baucom voluntarily undertook a flight as observer to locate the position of enemy troops and machine-gun nests which had been holding up our advance and causing severe casualties. Forced to fly at a very low altitude and subjected to almost constant antiaircraft, and rifle fire, he obtained the information that was vital to the success of our operations, and dropped the message at division headquarters. He then penetrated far into the enemy lines, and opening fire upon enemy crews routed them from a series of machine-gun nests. When his machine was finally shot down, he succeeded in operating the gun, and beat off an attack by the enemy in force. Armed only with revolvers and German grenades which they found in an enemy emplacement, he and his pilot then worked their way back to the American lines with valuable information, repeatedly subjected to enemy fire on their way.
General Orders 64, W.D., 1919
Birth: Milford, TX
Home Town: Milford, TX
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

*BEANE, JAMES DUDLEY
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 22d Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 29, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to James Dudley Beane, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Bantheville, France, October 29, 1918. When Lieutenant Beane's patrol was attacked by eight enemy planes (Fokker type) he dived into their midst in order to divert their attention from the other machines of his group and shot down one of the Fokkers in flames. Four other Fokkers then joined in the battle, one of which was also destroyed by this officer.
General Orders No. 46, W.D., 1919
Birth: 1/20/1896 - New York, NY
Home Town: Concord, MA

BEEBE, DAVID C.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 50th Aero Squadron, 50th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to David C. Beebe, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near St. Mihiel, France, September 13, 1918. With Second Lieutenant Franklin D. Bellows, observer, Second Lieutenant Beebe executed a reconnaissance mission early in the morning of the second day of the St. Mihiel offensive in spite of the clouds, high wind, mist, flying at an altitude of only 300 meters and without protection of accompanying battle planes. Although subjected to severe fire from ground batteries, they penetrated 8 kilometers behind the German lines. His motor was badly damaged and his observer, Lieutenant Bellows, was mortally wounded. Despite these conditions he succeeded in bringing the disabled machine to his lines.
General Orders No. No. 124, W.D., 1918
Birth: Syracuse, NY
Home Town: Syracuse, NY

*BELLOWS, FRANKLIN B.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 50th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Franklin B. Bellows, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near St. Mihiel, France, September 13, 1918. Second Lieutenant Bellows, with Second Lieutenant David C. Beebe, pilot, executed a reconnaissance mission early in the morning of the second day of the St. Mihiel offensive in spite of low clouds, high winds, and mist, flying at an altitude of only 300 meters, and without protection of accompanying battle planes. Although subjected to severe fire from ground batteries, they penetrated 8 kilometers beyond the German lines. Lieutenant Beebe's motor was badly damaged, and Lieutenant Bellows was mortally wounded and died just after the disabled machine landed safely in friendly territory.
General Orders No. No. 124, W.D., 1918
Birth: Evanston, IL
Home Town: Wilmette, IL

BELZER, WILLIAM E.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observation Group, 4th Corps, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12 - 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William E Belzer, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Jaulny, France, September 12 - 13, 1918. On September 12 Lieutenant Belzer, observer, and First Lieutenant Wallace Coleman, pilot, while on an artillery surveillance mission, were attacked by an enemy plane. They waited until the enemy was at close range and then fired 50 rounds directly into the vital parts of the enemy machine, which was seen to disappear out of control. The next day Lieutenants Belzer and Coleman, while on a reconnaissance mission, were attacked by seven enemy aircraft. They unhesitatingly opened fire, but owing to their guns being jammed were forced to withdraw to our lines where, clearing the jam, they returned to finish the mission. Their guns again jammed, and they were driven back by a large patrol of enemy planes. After skillful maneuvering they succeeded an putting one gun into use and returned a third time, only to be driven back. Undaunted, they returned the fourth time and accomplished their mission, transmitting valuable information to the Infantry headquarters.
General Orders No. No. 128, W.D., 1918
Birth: Ackley, IA
Home Town: Helena, MT

BENELL, OTTO E.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 135th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Otto E. Benell, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Thiaucourt, France, September 12, 1918, Lieutenant Benell went out on a two-hour counter attack artillery adjustment under adverse weather conditions. Soon after he suffered an accident to his right hand, which made it useless. In spite of this injury, he continued to operate his wireless key with his left hand, directing the fire of the batteries on concentrations behind the enemy lines.
General Orders No. No. 140, W.D., 1918
Birth: Pueblo, CO
Home Town: Fort Collins, CO

BERNHEIMER, LOUIS G.
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 88th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 11, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Louis G. Bernheimer, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fismes, France, August 11, 1918. Together with John W. Jordan, second Lieutenant, 7th Field Artillery; observer; Roger W. Hitchcock, Second Lieutenant, Pilot; James S. D. Burns, deceased, Second Lieutenant, 101st Field Artillery, observer; Philip R. Babcock, First Lieutenant, pilot; Joseph A. Palmer, Second Lieutenant, 15th Field Artillery, observer, Joel H. McClendon, deceased, First Lieutenant, Pilot; and Charles W. Plummer, deceased, Second Lieutenant, 101st Field Artillery, all attached to the same squadron. Under the protection of three pursuit planes, all carrying a pilot and observer, Lieutenants Bernheimer and Jordan, in charge of a photo plane, carried out successfully a hazardous photographic mission over the enemy's lines to the River Aisne. The four American ships were attacked by 12 enemy battle planes. Lieutenant Bernheimer, by coolly and skillfully maneuvering his ship, and Lieutenant Jordan, by accurate operation of his machine gun, in spite of wounds in the shoulder and leg, aided materially in the victory which came to the American ships, and returned safely with 36 valuable photographs. The pursuit plane operated by Lieutenants Hitchcock and Burns was disabled while these two officers were fighting effectively. Lieutenant Burns was mortally wounded and his body jammed the controls. After a headlong fall of 2, 500 meters, Lieutenant Hitchcock succeeded in regaining control of this plane and piloted it back to the airdrome. Lieutenants McClendon and Plummer were shot down and killed after a vigorous combat with five of the enemy planes. Lieutenants Babcock and Palmer, by gallant and skillful fighting, aided in driving off the German planes and were materially responsible for the successful execution of the photographic mission.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: New York, NY
Home Town: New York, NY
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

BERNHEIMER, LOUIS G.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 88th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 2, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Louis G. Bernheimer, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Tailly, France, November 2, 1918. Lieutenant Bernheimer and First Lieutenant Ralph P. Bagby, observer, on their own imitative, went on a reconnaissance mission, flying 15 kilometers behind the German lines, securing valuable information, the condition of the bridges across the Meuse River and enemy activity in the back areas, and harassing enemy troops.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: New York, NY
Home Town: New York, NY
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

BIDDLE, CHARLES JOHN
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 13th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 26, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Charles John Biddle, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Damvillers, France, September 26, 1918. During an engagement between 11 Spads and 12 enemy Fokkers, Captain Biddle, perceiving a comrade in distress from the attack of two planes, dived upon them and by his fire forced them to withdraw. His prompt action saved the life of his comrade, who was in imminent danger of being shot to the ground.
General Orders No. 60, W.D., 1920
Birth: 5/13/1890 - Andalusia, PA
Home Town: Andalusia, PA

BISSELL, CLAYTON LAWRENCE
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 148th Aero Squadron, 4th Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 28, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Clayton Lawrence Bissell, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the vicinity of Jenlain, France, October 28, 1918. While a member of a flight First Lieutenant Bissell was attacked by greatly superior numbers of enemy planes. Lieutenant Bissell, observing an American plane attacked by eight of the enemy, dived into their midst, destroying one plane, whereupon he was set upon by three enemy Fokkers, one of which he shot down, driving the remaining planes to their own lines. His own plane was so badly crippled as to be beyond repair. The outstanding bravery displayed by Lieutenant Bissell greatly inspired the members of his squadron.
General Orders No. No. 14, W.D., 1923
Birth: 7/29/1896 - Kane, PA
Home Town: Kane, PA

BONNALIE, ALLAN F.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, Royal Air Force (Attached), Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Allan F. Bonnalie, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Bruges, Belgium. On August 13, 1918, First Lieutenant Bonnalie led two other machines on a long photographic reconnaissance. In spite of the presence of numerous enemy aircraft, they were able to take all the photographs required, but were attacked by six Fokker biplanes. During the combat LieutenantBonnalie saw that one of his accompanying machines was in difficulty and that an enemy airplane was nearly on its tail. He at once broke off combat with the enemy with whom he was engaged and dived to the assistance of the machine in trouble. He drove off the enemy plane, regardless of the bullets which were ripping up his own machine. Eventually, however, his tail planes and his elevator wires were shot away and his machine began to fall in side slips. Lieutenant Bonnalie managed to keep his machine facing toward the British lines by means of the rudder control, while his observer and the third machine drove off the enemy aircraft, which was still attacking. In its damaged condition Lieutenant Bonnalie's machine was tail heavy, and he therefore had his observer leave his cockpit and lie out along the cowl in front of the pilot. In this manner he re-crossed the British trenches at a low altitude and righted his machine sufficiently to avoid a fatal crash. Had it not been for the gallantry of Lieutenant Bonnalie the injured machine to whose assistance he went would have fallen into enemy territory, aspilot had been wounded and its observer killed. Lieutenant Bonnalie's own machine was riddled with bullets and it was a marvelous performance to bring it safely to the ground.
General Orders No. 99, W.D., 1918
Birth: Denver, CO
Home Town: San Francisco, CA

BORDEN, HORACE
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 90th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 29, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Horace Borden, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Cunel, France, October 29, 1918. While carrying out a difficult contact mission without the protection of friendly planes, Lieutenant Borden was attacked by three hostile machines, which he succeeded in driving off. He secured the information he sought, but while attempting to fire a signal rocket it exploded, setting the machine on fire. Lieutenant Borden crawled back on the fuselage of the machine and extinguished the flames with his bare hands. Although suffering real pain he refused to be sent to the rear for treatment but remained on duty with his squadron.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: Newport, RI
Home Town: Newport, RI

BOWERS, LLOYD G.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 3d Balloon Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 14 - 29 & October 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Lloyd G. Bowers, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for repeated acts of extraordinary heroism in action near Gironville and Chatel-Chehery, France, August 14 - 29 and October 27, 1918. On August 14 this officer's balloon was attacked by four enemy chase machines and, though urged to jump, he remained at his post and secured information of great value. On August 29 he was attacked by enemy planes using incendiary bullets, but would not leave his post before his balloon caught fire; he insisted at once upon re-ascending, although he knew that the enemy was constantly patrolling the air. On October 27, near Chatel-Chehery, while regulating artillery fire, he was attacked by several enemy planes and his balloon was perforated by incendiary bullets. He remained in the air and carried out his observation. His extreme courage and devotion to duty furnished a splendid example to the officers and men of his command.
General Orders No. 3, W.D., 1919
Birth: Birmingham, AL
Home Town: Birmingham, AL

BOWMAN, SAMUEL A.
Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), U.S. Army
Observer, 12th Aero Squadron (Attached), Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 4, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Samuel A. Bowman, Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the Aire Valley, near Fleville, France, October 4, 1918. Lieutenant Bowman displayed remarkable bravery and devotion to duty while on an Infantry contact patrol mission. Heavy machine-gun fire was encountered from the enemy position in Fleville. The plane was pierced many times and Lieutenant Bowman was severely wounded, but in spite of this fact he continued on his mission until the front line was located, after which he wrote and dropped clear and accurate messages to division and corps command posts, giving valuable and timely information.
General Orders No. 15, W.D., 1919
Birth: Springfield, OH
Home Town: Springfield, OH

BOYD, THEODORE E.
Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), U.S. Army
Pilot, 88th Aero Squadron (Attached), 7th Field Artillery, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 14, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Theodore E. Boyd, Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Conflans, France, September 14, 1918. Second Lieutenant Boyd, being detailed for the protection of a photographic mission with five other planes, proceeded on his mission, when three of the escorting planes failed to join the formation. While flying near Conflans the formation engaged in combat with five enemy pursuit planes. Wounded in both legs, the left foot, and the right elbow, . he displayed exceptional tenacity and courage by continuing to fire his guns until the enemy were put to flight.
General Orders No. 20, W.D., 1919
Birth: Ashland City, TN
Home Town: Carthage, TN

BREESE, CLINTON S.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 12th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 2, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Clinton S. Breese, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Argonne, France, November 2, 1918. While on an infantry contact mission, Lieutenant Breese and his pilot were attacked by four enemy planes and driven back, but realizing the importance of their mission, deliberately returned and attacked the four planes, sending one to the earth and driving the others away. Unmindful of the damaged condition of their plane and of their own danger, they then flew for an hour within 100 meters of the ground through a continuous heavy machine-gun fire until they had accurately located our front line positions.
General Orders No. 32, W.D., 1919
Birth: Waukesha, WI
Home Town: Waukesha, WI

BRERETON, LEWIS H.
(First Award)
Major (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, Corps Observation Wing, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Lewis H. Brereton, Major (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action over Thiaucourt, France, September 12, 1918. Major Brereton, together with an observer, voluntarily and pursuant to a request for special mission, left his airdrome, crossed the enemy lines over Lironville, and proceeded to Thiaucourt. In spite of poor visibility, which forced them to fly at a very low altitude, and in spite of intense and accurate antiaircraft fire they maintained their flight along their course and obtained valuable information. Over Thiaucourt they were suddenly attacked by four enemy monoplane Fokkers. Maneuvering his machine so that is observer could obtain a good field of fire, he entered into combat. His observer's guns becoming jammed, he withdrew until the jam was cleared, when he returned to the combat. His observer then becoming wounded, he coolly made a landing within friendly lines, although followed down by the enemy to within 25 meters of the ground. By this act he made himself an inspiration and example to all the members of his command.
General Orders No. 15, W.D., 1919
Birth: Allegheny, PA
Home Town: Allegheny, PA
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWII)

BREWSTER, HUGH
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 14, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Hugh Brewster, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Hageville, France, September 14, 1918. With First Lieutenant Hugh L. Fontaine, First Lieutenant Brewster attacked nine enemy monoplanes (Fokkers) at an altitude of 4, 000 meters. He dived into the midst of the enemy formation without consideration for his personal safety, subjecting himself to great danger. By the suddenness and extreme vehemence of his attack, the machines were driven into confusion. Although greatly outnumbered, he and Lieutenant Fontaine succeeded in shooting down two of the enemy.
General Orders No. No. 123, W.D., 1918
Birth: Bankston, AL
Home Town: Fort Worth, TX

BROOKS, ARTHUR RAYMOND
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 22d Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 14, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Arthur Raymond Brooks, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action over Mars-la-Tour, France, September 14, 1918. When his patrol was attacked by 12 enemy Fokkers over Mars-la-Tour, 8 miles within the enemy lines, Second Lieutenant Brooks alone fought bravely and relentlessly with eight of them, pursuing the fight from 5, 000 meters to within a few meters of the ground, and though his right rudder control was out and his plane riddled with bullets, he destroyed two Fokkers, one falling out of control and the other bursting into flames.
General Orders No. No. 123, W.D., 1918
Birth: 11/1/1895 - Framingham, MA
Home Town: Framingham, MA

*BROOMFIELD, HUGH D. G.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 90th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 21, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Hugh D. G. Broomfield, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Cunel, France, October 21, 1918. Responding to an urgent request for a plane to penetrate the enemy lines to ascertain whether or not the enemy was preparing a counterattack, Lieutenant Broomfield immediately volunteered for the mission. Obliged to fly at a very low altitude on account of the unfavorable weather conditions, he was under terrific fire of the enemy at all times, but by skillful dodging he managed to cross the enemy lines.
General Orders No. 37, W.D., 1919
Birth: Hudson, IL
Home Town: Gladstone, OR

BROTHERTON, WILLIAM E.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 147th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 1, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William E. Brotherton, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fere-en-Tardenois, France, on August 1, 1918. An enemy Rumpler plane being reported over the airdrome, Lieutenant Brotherton, with another officer, ascended and soon uncounted six Fokker planes that were protecting another Fokker serving as a decoy. Disregarding the enemy's superiority in numbers, he maneuvered so as to secure the advantage of the sun and dived on the decoy plane; pouring in air destructive fire, he killed the pilot and crashed the machine to the ground.
General Orders 7, W.D., 1919
Birth: Guthrie, IL
Home Town: Chicago, IL

BROWN, MITCHELL H.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 50th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 23, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Mitchell H. Brown, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Beffu et la Morthomme, France, October 23, 1918. Lieutenant Brown, observer, piloted by Lieutenant Phillips, while on a reconnaissance for the 78th Division, attacked an enemy balloon and forced it to descend. They were in turn attacked by three enemy planes (Fokker type). The incendiary bullets from the enemy's machine set the signal rockets in Lieutenant Brown's cockpit afire. Disregarding the flames, he continued to fire, destroying one enemy plane and forcing the others to retire. He then used the extinguisher handed him by his pilot and put out the flames. They successfully completed their mission and secured valuable information.
General Orders No. 20, W.D., 1919
Birth: Rockwall, TX
Home Town: Rockwall, TX

BUCKLEY, HAROLD ROBERT
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 95th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 10, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Harold Robert Buckley, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Perle, France, August 10, 1918. Lieutenant Buckley was on a patrol protecting a French biplane observation machine, when they were suddenly set upon by six enemy planes. Lieutenant Buckley attacked and destroyed the nearest, and the remainder fled into their own territory. He then carried on with his mission until he had escorted the allied plane safely to its own aerodrome.
General Orders No. 138, W.D., 1919
Birth: 4/4/1896 - Westfield, MA
Home Town: Agawam, MA
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 95th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 10, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Harold Robert Buckley, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Perle, France, August 10, 1918. Lieutenant Buckley was on a patrol protecting a French biplane observation machine, when they were suddenly set upon by six enemy planes. Lieutenant Buckley attacked and destroyed the nearest, and the remainder fled into their own territory. He then carried on with his mission until he had escorted the allied plane safely to its own aerodrome.
General Orders No. 138, W.D., 1919
Birth: 4/4/1896 - Westfield, MA
Home Town: Agawam, MA
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

BUCKLEY, HAROLD ROBERT
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 95th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 16 - 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Harold Robert Buckley, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Neville, France, and Boureuilles, France, September 16 - 27, 1918. Lieutenant Buckley dived through a violent and heavy antiaircraft and machine-gun fire and set on fire an enemy balloon that was being lowered to its nest. On the next day, while leading a patrol, he met and sent down in flames an enemy plane while it was engaged in reglage work.
General Orders No. 138, W.D., 1919
Birth: 4/4/1896 - Westfield, MA
Home Town: Agawam, MA
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

BUFORD, EDWARD, JR.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 95th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 22, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Edward Buford, Jr., First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism on May 22, 1918, while on barrage patrol against German photographic machines in the region of Commercy-St. Mihiel, France. First Lieutenant Buford engaged in combat, alone, five German biplane machines, attacking one or more of them in three separate combats in 25 minutes. One of the machines he shot down and the others he drove off, thus fulfilling his mission against heavy odds.
General Orders No. No. 129, W.D., 1918
Birth: Nashville, TN
Home Town: Nashville, TN

BURDICK, HOWARD
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 17th Aero Squadron, 4th Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 28, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Howard Burdick, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action northwest of Cambrai, France, September 28, 1918. Attacked by two Fokker biplanes, Lieutenant Burdick outmaneuvered both machines, shot one into flames and routed the other one. Later, seeing three Fokkers attacking an American aviator, he at once dove into the combat to his assistance, shooting down one and driving off the other two. His quick and unhesitating attack, single-handed, on the three Fokkers save the life of his fellow pilot.
General Orders No. No. 38, W.D., 1921
Birth: 12/12/1891 - New York, NY
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY

BURGER, VALENTINE JOSEPH
(First Award)
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 3d Army Observation Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Valentine Joseph Burger, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Hill 360, over the region of the Meuse, France, October 27, 1918. Lieutenant Burger, with his pilot, flying at an altitude of less than 15 meters within close range of numerous machine guns and light artillery pieces fired continually on them, staked the American advanced lines and helped silence enemy machine-gun nests, which were holding up the advance of the infantry at this point. Although the plane was riddled with over 300 bullet holes, and the pilot severely wounded, Lieutenant Burger gathered valuable and accurate information and assisted his pilot to a safe landing within reach of the post of command and delivered his valuable information.
General Orders No. No. 39, W.D., 1920
Birth: Brooklyn, NY
Home Town: Leonia, NJ
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI), Distinguished Service Cross w/2 OLC (WWI)

BURGER, VALENTINE JOSEPH
(Second Award)
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 3d Army Observation Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 1, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Valentine Joseph Burger, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the air over Europe. On November 1, 1918, during the progress of an important attack, Lieutenant Burger volunteered on a mission to fly through a heavy fog in order to locate the then advanced infantry of the attack. In accomplishing this mission it was necessary to fly at a very low altitude and through the American barrage, which was being fired during the flight. He penetrated several kilometers into the enemy's lines, being subjected to heavy machine-gun fire from the ground, which struck his plane many times, obtained information of the disposition of the enemy artillery, infantry, and our own front lines. He returned through the fire with the information, which was the first authentic data to reach the division commander.
General Orders No. No. 39, W.D., 1920
Birth: Brooklyn, NY
Home Town: Leonia, NJ
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI), Distinguished Service Cross w/2 OLC (WWI)

*BURNS, JAMES S. D.
Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), U.S. Army
Pilot, 88th Aero Squadron (Attached), 101st Field Artillery, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 11, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to James S. D. Burns, Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fismes, France, August 11, 1918, together with John W. Jordan, second lieutenant, 7th Field Artillery; observer; Roger W. Hitchcock, second lieutenant, pilot; Louis G. Bernheimer, first lieutenant, pilot; Philip R. Babcock, first lieutenant, pilot; Joseph A. Palmer, second lieutenant, 15th Field Artillery, observer; Joel H. McClendon, deceased, first lieutenant, pilot; and Charles W. Plummer, deceased, second lieutenant, 101st Field Artillery, all attached to the same squadron. Under the protection of three pursuit planes, all carrying a pilot and observer, Lieutenants Bernheimer and Jordan, in charge of a photo plane, carried out successfully a hazardous photographic mission over the enemy's lines to the River Aisne. The four American ships were attacked by 12 enemy battle planes. Lieutenant Bernheimer, by coolly and skillfully maneuvering his ship, and Lieutenant Jordan, by accurate operation of his machine gun, in spite of wounds in the shoulder and leg, aided materially in the victory which came to the American ships, and returned safely with 36 valuable photographs. The pursuit plane operated by Lieutenant Hitchcock and Lieutenant Burns was disabled while these two officers were fighting effectively. Lieutenant Burns was mortally wounded and his body jammed the controls. After a headlong fall of 2, 500 meters, Lieutenant Hitchcock succeeded in regaining control of this plane and piloted it back to the airdrome. Lieutenants McClendon and Plummer were shot down and killed after a vigorous combat with five of the enemy planes. Lieutenants Babcock and Palmer, by gallant and skillful fighting, aided in driving off the German planes and were materially responsible for the successful execution of the photographic mission.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: New York, NY
Home Town: New York, NY

BURT, BYRON T., JR.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, Balloon Section, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 4 - 11, September 16, & October 1, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Byron T. Burt, Jr., First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for repeated acts of extraordinary heroism in action near Griscourt, France, August 4 - 11, 1918, near Sommedieue, France, September 16, and near Avocourt, France, October 1, 1918. On each of these occasions, Lieutenant Burt remained with his balloon, making important observations of the enemy's positions and directing our artillery fire, until his balloon was set on fire by incendiary bullets from enemy aircraft. On one occasion he refused to jump until his companion, a student observer, was safely away.
General Orders No. 46, W.D., 1919
Birth: , Italy
Home Town: Port Henry, NY

CAMPBELL, DOUGLAS
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 19, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Douglas Campbell, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on May 19, 1918. First Lieutenant Campbell attacked an enemy biplane at an altitude of 4, 500 meters, east of Flirey, France. He rushed to the attack, but after shooting a few rounds his gun jammed. Undeterred by this accident he maneuvered so as to protect himself, corrected the jam in midair, and returned to the assault. After a short, violent action, the enemy plane took fire and crashed to the earth.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: 6/7/1896 - San Francisco, CA
Home Town: Cambridge, MA
Other Award: Five Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CAMPBELL, DOUGLAS
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: June 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Douglas Campbell, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on June 5, 1918. Accompanied by another pilot, Second Lieutenant Campbell attacked two enemy battle planes at an altitude of 5, 700 meters over Epley, France. After a spirited combat he was shot through the back by a machine-gun bullet, but in spite of his injury he kept on fighting until he had forced one of the enemy planes to the ground, where it was destroyed by artillery fire, and had driven the other plane back into its own territory.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: 6/7/1896 - San Francisco, CA
Home Town: Cambridge, MA
Other Award: Five Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CAMPBELL, DOUGLAS
(Third Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 31, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Douglas Campbell, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on May 31, 1918. Second Lieutenant Campbell took the offensive against two German planes at an altitude of 2, 500 meters over Lironville, France, shot down one of them, and pursued the other far behind the German lines.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: 6/7/1896 - San Francisco, CA
Home Town: Cambridge, MA
Other Award: Five Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CAMPBELL, DOUGLAS
(Fourth Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 28, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Douglas Campbell, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on May 28, 1918. Second Lieutenant Campbell saw six German Albatross aeroplanes flying toward him at an altitude of 2, 000 meters, near Bois Rata, France. Regardless of personal danger, he immediately attacked, and by skillful maneuvering and accurate operation of his machine gun he brought one plane down in flames and drove the other five back into their own lines.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: 6/7/1896 - San Francisco, CA
Home Town: Cambridge, MA
Other Award: Five Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CAMPBELL, DOUGLAS
(Fifth Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Douglas Campbell, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on May 27, 1918. Second Lieutenant Campbell encountered three enemy monoplanes at an altitude of 3, 000 meters over Montsec, France. Despite the superior strength of the enemy, he promptly attacked, and fighting a brilliant battle, shot down one German machine, which fell in three pieces, and drove the other two well within the enemy lines.
General Orders No. No. 121, W.D., 1918
Birth: 6/7/1896 - San Francisco, CA
Home Town: Cambridge, MA
Other Award: Five Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CARROLL, GEORGE C.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 2d Balloon Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 26, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to George C. Carroll, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fort de Marr, France, September 26, 1918. Lieutenant Carroll had ascended in a balloon to a height of 1 kilometer on a reglagemission, when he was attacked by enemy planes; but he refused to leave his post and fired on the planes with his pistol while incendiary bullets were striking his basket and balloon. He was finally forced to jump when his balloon burst into flames, but he re-ascended as soon as a new balloon could be inflated. On three other occasions Lieutenant Carroll also gave proof of exceptional courage by remaining in his balloon in the face of aeroplane attacks, jumping only when his balloon took fire and immediately re-ascending when a new balloon could be inflated.
General Orders No. 46, W.D., 1919
Birth: Garrett, IN
Home Town: Garrett, IN

CASSADY, THOMAS G.
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 28th Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 29 & June 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Thomas G. Cassady, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fismes, May 29, 1918, and near Epieds, France, June 5, 1918. On May 29, 1918, Lieutenant Cassady, single-handed, attacked an Lvg. German plane which crashed near Fismes. On June 5, 1918, as patrol leader of five spades, while being attacked by 12 German Fokkers, he brought down one of the enemy planes near Epieds and by his dash and courage broke the enemy formation.
General Orders No. No. 138, W.D., 1918
Birth: 1/5/1896 - Freedom, IN
Home Town: Spencer, IN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

CASSADY, THOMAS G.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 28th Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 15, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Thomas G. Cassady, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on August 15, 1918, near St. Maire. While in action as protection for a Salmson, First Lieutenant Cassady was attacked by seven Fokkers, two of which he brought down and enabled the Salmson to accomplish its mission and return safely.
General Orders No. No. 138, W.D., 1918
Birth: 1/5/1896 - Freedom, IN
Home Town: Spencer, IN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CASTLEMAN, JOHN R.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 99th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John R. Castleman, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Romagne, France, October 5, 1918. In spite of being attacked by seven enemy planes, type Fokker, and later by five type Pfalz, Lieutenant Castleman successfully accomplished a photographic mission 6 kilometers behind the German lines, without protection, and also destroyed two of the enemy planes.
General Orders No. 37, W.D., 1919
Birth: Berryville, VA
Home Town: Berryville, VA

CHAMBERS, REED MCKINLEY
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 2, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Reed McKinley Chambers, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Montfaucon and Vilosnes sur Meuse, France, October 2, 1918. At 7. 40 o'clock Lieutenant Chambers saw four enemy machines (Fokker type) attacking another American machine (Spad type). He immediately went to its rescue, and after a few minutes of fierce combat he succeeded in shooting down one.
General Orders No. No. 14, W.D., 1920
Birth: 8/18/1894 - Onaga, KS
Home Town: Memphis, TN
Other Award: Four Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CHAMBERS, REED MCKINLEY
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 29, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Reed McKinley Chambers, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action over the region of Epinonville, France, September 29, 1918. While on a mission Lieutenant Chambers, accompanied by another machine piloted by First Lieutenant Samuel Kaye, Jr. , encountered a formation of six enemy machines (Fokker type) at an altitude of 3, 000 feet. Despite numerical superiority of the enemy, Lieutenant Chambers and Lieutenant Kaye immediately attacked and succeeded in destroying one and forced the remaining five to retreat into their own lines.
General Orders No. No. 14, W.D., 1920
Birth: 8/18/1894 - Onaga, KS
Home Town: Memphis, TN
Other Award: Four Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CHAMBERS, REED MCKINLEY
(Third Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 2, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Reed McKinley Chambers, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Montfaucon and Vilosnes sur Meuse, France, October 2, 1918. Lieutenant Chambers, while on a mission, at an altitude of 2, 000 feet, encountered an enemy two-seater (Halberstadt type). He immediately attacked, and after a brief combat succeeded in shooting it down.
General Orders No. No. 14, W.D., 1920
Birth: 8/18/1894 - Onaga, KS
Home Town: Memphis, TN
Other Award: Four Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

CHAMBERS, REED MCKINLEY
(Fourth Award)
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 21, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Reed McKinley Chambers, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near the Bois-de-la Cote-Lemonte, France, October 21, 1918. While on a voluntary patrol, Captain Chambers encountered five enemy planes (Fokker type), harassing our Infantry at an altitude of 300 meters. Attacking them without hesitation, he shot down two of them and drove off the others.
General Orders No. No. 14, W.D., 1920
Birth: 8/18/1894 - Onaga, KS
Home Town: Memphis, TN
Other Award: Four Total Awards: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

*CHAPMAN, CHARLES W., JR.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: May 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Charles W. Chapman, Jr., Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism on May 5, 1918, in the region of Autrepierre, France. While on patrol duty, Lieutenant Chapman courageously attacked a group of four monoplanes and one biplane and succeeded in bringing one down before he himself was shot down in flames.
General Orders No. No. 101, W.D., 1918
Birth: Dubuque, IA
Home Town: Waterloo, IA

CLAPP, KENNETH SMITH
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 27th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: June 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Kenneth Smith Clapp, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Luneville, France, June 13, 1918. Outnumbered and handicapped by his presence far behind the German lines, Second Lieutenant Clapp and three flying companions fought brilliantly a large group of enemy planes, bringing down or putting to flight all in the attacking party, while performing an important mission.
General Orders No. No. 132, W.D., 1918
Birth: Fort Wayne, IN
Home Town: Fort Wayne, IN

CLARKE, SHELDON V.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 9th Balloon Company, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 28 & September 26, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Sheldon V. Clarke, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Raulecourt, France, August 28 and September 26, 1918. While making a general surveillance of enemy territory on August 28, and September 26, 1918, Lieutenant Clarke was attacked by enemy planes. On both occasions he remained at his post and directed the fire by telephone until his balloon had been set on fire. On August 28 he assisted a passenger to descend, and did not jump himself until the other's parachute had opened. On both occasions he re-ascended as soon as another balloon could be obtained.
General Orders No. 46, W.D., 1919
Birth: Williamsport, PA
Home Town: Williamsport, PA

*CLAY, HENRY ROBINSON, JR.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 148th Aero Squadron, 4th Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 4 & 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Henry Robinson Clay, Jr., First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Sains-les-Marquion, France, September 4, 1918. In an action wherein Lieutenant Clay's patrol was outnumbered two-to-one, he attacked the group and shot down the enemy aircraft in flames. He continued in the combat and later attacked two enemy aircraft which were pursuing a plane of his patrol and succeeded in shooting one enemy aircraft down. Again, on September 27, 1918, near Cambrai, France, with one other pilot, Lieutenant Clay observed five enemy planes approaching our lines and, although hopelessly outnumbered, immediately attacked and singled out a plane which was seen to crash to the ground. He was immediately attacked by the other enemy planes and compelled to fight his way back to our lines.
General Orders No. 60, W.D., 1920
Birth: 11/27/1895 - Plattsburg, MO
Home Town: Fort Worth, TX

COLEMAN, WALLACE
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observation Group, 4th Corps, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12 - 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Wallace Coleman, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Jaulny France, September 12 - 13, 1918. On September 12 Lieutenant Coleman, pilot, and Second Lieutenant William Belzer, observer, while on an artillery surveillance mission were attacked by an enemy plane. They waited until the enemy was at close range and then fired 50 rounds directly into the vital parts of the enemy machine, which was seen to disappear out of control. The next day Lieutenants Belzer and Coleman, while on a reconnaissance mission, were attacked by seven enemy aircraft. They unhesitatingly opened fire, but, owing to their guns being jammed, were forced to withdraw to our lines, where, clearing the jam, they returned to finish the mission. Their guns again jammed, and they were driven back by a large patrol of enemy planes. After skillful maneuvering they succeeded in putting one gun into use and returned a third time, only to be driven back. Undaunted, they returned the fourth time and accomplished their mission, transmitting valuable information to the Infantry headquarters.
General Orders No. No. 128, W.D., 1918
Birth: Columbus, IN
Home Town: Racine, WI

CONOVER, HARVEY
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 3rd Observation Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Harvey Conover, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Consenvoye, France, October 27, 1918. Flying at an altitude of less than 50 meters over enemy artillery and machine guns, which were constantly firing on him, Lieutenant Conover and his observer staked the American front lines and gave valuable information and assistance to the advancing infantry. Although suffering from two severe wounds, and with a seriously damaged plane, he delivered a harassing fire on six enemy machine-gun nests which were checking the advance of the ground troops, and successfully drove off the crews of four guns and silenced the other two. He then made a safe landing and forwarded his information to division headquarters before seeking medical aid.
General Orders No. 37, W.D., 1919
Birth: Chicago, IL
Home Town: Hinsdale, IL

COOK, EVERETT RICHARD
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 91st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 26, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Everett Richard Cook, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Damvillers, France, September 26, 1918. While on a photographic mission in the vicinity of Damvillers which necessitated a penetration of 20 kilometers within the enemy lines, Captain Cook was attacked by seven enemy pursuit planes, and his plane was riddled with bullets. In spite of the attack he continued on his mission, turning only for our lines when his observer had secured photographs of great military value. In the combat one enemy aircraft was destroyed.
General Orders No. 13, W.D., 1919
Birth: 12/13/1894 - Indianapolis, IN
Home Town: Memphis, TN

COOK, HARVEY WEIR
(First Award)
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 30, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Harvey Weir Cook, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Crepion, France, October 30, 1918. Captain Cook attacked three enemy bi-place planes at an altitude of 1, 000 meters. After a few minutes of severe fighting his guns jammed, but after clearing the jam he returned to the attack, shot down one of his adversaries in flames, and forced the other two to retire to their own lines.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: 6/30/1892 - Wilkinson, IN
Home Town: Anderson, IN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

COOK, HARVEY WEIR
(Second Award)
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 1, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Harvey Weir Cook, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Bois-de-Dole, France, August 1, 1918. Sighting six enemy mono- place planes at an altitude of 3, 500 meters, Captain Cook, attacked them despite their numerical superiority, shooting down one and driving off the others.
General Orders No. 44, W.D., 1919
Birth: 6/30/1892 - Wilkinson, IN
Home Town: Anderson, IN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

*COOLIDGE, HAMILTON
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Hamilton Coolidge, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Grand Pre, France, October 27, 1918. Leading a protection patrol, Captain Coolidge went to the assistance of two observation planes which were being attacked by six German machines. Observing this maneuver, the enemy sent up a terrific barrage from antiaircraft guns on the ground. Disregarding the extreme danger, he dived straight into the barrage, and his plane was struck and sent down in flames.
General Orders No. 37, W.D., 1919
Birth: 9/1/1895 - Brookline, MA
Home Town: Miami, FL

COUSINS, JOHN W.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 91st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 2, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John W. Cousins, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Conflans, France, November 2, 1918. In the course of a photographic mission of a particularly dangerous character Lieutenant Cousins and his pilot were attacked by a superior number of enemy pursuit planes. During the combat that ensued, with remarkable coolness and excellent shooting, he destroyed one of the attacking machines. Notwithstanding that the enemy aircraft continued to attack and harass them, Lieutenant Cousins and pilot reached all their objectives and returned to our lines with photographs of great military importance.
General Orders No. 15, W.D., 1919
Birth: New Haven, CT
Home Town: New Haven, CT

CREECH, JESSE ORIN
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 148th Aero Squadron, 4th Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 26, 28, & October 28, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Jesse Orin Creech, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action at Cambrai, France, September 26, 1918; south of Masnieres, France, September 28, 1918; and near Jenlain, France, October 28, 1918. Being on enemy patrol on September 26, 1918, when a large number of enemy airplanes were encountered, in the fight that ensued Lieutenant Creech shot down two of the enemy planes and save the commander of the patrol from being shot down. On October 28, 1918, near Jenlain, France, Lieutenant Creech's flight of 5 planes was attacked by 8 Fokker biplanes. In this encounter Lieutenant Creech also shot down 2 enemy planes. On September 28, 1918, south of Masnieres, France, Lieutenant Creech with his flight attacked an enemy balloon and compelled the observers to jump. Enemy troops were then attacked in close formation, causing many casualties and scattering all the troops. In all of these encounters Lieutenant Creech displayed high courage, great valor, and utter disregard of danger. He constantly went to the assistance of members of his flight and exposed himself with great fearlessness, and yet with all displayed keen judgment and tireless energy. He proved himself a leader of unusual ability, and was a constant inspiration to the members of his command.
General Orders No. No. 19, W.D., 1926
Birth: 8/22/1895 - Harlan, KY
Home Town: Takoma Park, DC

CURTIS, EDWARD P.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 95th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Edward P. Curtis, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Stenay, France, September 27, 1918. Lieutenant Curtis volunteered to perform a reconnaissance patrol of particular danger and importance 30 kilometers within the enemy's territory. He made the entire journey through a heavy antiaircraft and machine-gun fire, and flew at an extremely low altitude to secure the desired information.
General Orders No. No. 138, W.D., 1918
Birth: Rochester, NY
Home Town: Rochester, NY

*CUTTER, EDWARD B.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 19th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 21, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Edward B. Cutter, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Cunel, France, October 21, 1918. Responding to an urgent request for a plane to penetrate the enemy lines to ascertain whether or not the enemy was preparing a counterattack, Lieutenant Cutter immediately volunteered for the mission. Obliged to fly at a very low altitude on account of the unfavorable weather conditions he was under terrific fire of the enemy at all times, by skillful dodging he managed to cross the enemy lines. His plane was seen to suddenly lurch and crash a short distance to the ground, both he and his brother observer being killed.
General Orders No. 37, W.D., 1919
Birth: Anoka, MN
Home Town: Anoka, MN

DAWSON, LEO H.
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: July 19, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Leo H. Dawson, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Hartennes, France, July 19, 1918. While on a voluntary patrol, Lieutenant Dawson encountered seven enemy monoplanes at an altitude of 2,000 meters. After a brief engagement his guns jammed, but, after repairing the jam in the air, and under heavy fire, he returned to the fight, shot down one of the enemy in flames and drove off the others
General Orders No. 21, W.D., 1919
Birth: 11/8/1893 - Maxwell, NM
Home Town: Denver, CO
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

DAWSON, LEO H.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 94th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 4, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Leo H. Dawson, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Clery-le-Petit, France, November 4, 1918. Sighting four enemy planes (type Rumpler), Lieutenant Dawson immediately attacked, despite the numerical superiority of the enemy, and destroyed one of the group, whereupon the remaining three scattered and returned to their lines.
General Orders No. 21, W.D., 1919
Birth: Maxwell, NM
Home Town: Denver, CO
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

DE CASTRO, RALPH ELLISON
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Ralph Ellison De Castro, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near St. Mihiel, France, September 12, 1918. Because of intense aerial activity on the opening day of the St. Mihiel offensive, Lieutenant de Castro, pilot, and First Lieutenant Arthur E. Easterbrook, observer, volunteered to fly over the enemy's lines on a photographic mission, without the usual protection of accompanying battle planes. Notwithstanding low-hanging clouds, which necessitated operation at an altitude of only 400 meters, they penetrated four kilometers beyond the German lines. Attacked by four enemy machines, they fought their foes, completed their photographs mission, and returned safely.
General Orders No. No. 116, W.D., 1918
Birth: Brooklyn, NY
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY

DIEKEMA, WILLIS A.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 91st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 15, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Willis A. Diekema, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Metz, France, September 15, 1918. While on a photographic mission Lieutenant Diekema's formation was attacked by a superior number of enemy aircraft. In the course of the combat Lieutenant Diekema's companion planes were driven off. Disregarding the fact that his machine was without protection, he continued on his mission until his observer, Lieutenant Hammond, had completed the photographs. On the return they fought their way through an enemy patrol and destroyed one of the machines.
General Orders No. No. 143, W.D., 1918
Birth: Holland, MI
Home Town: Chicago, IL

DILLON, RAYMOND P.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 24th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 3, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Raymond P. Dillon, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Mezieres, France, November 3, 1918. Lieutenant Dillon exhibited courage in the course of a long and dangerous photographic and visual reconnaissance in the region of Mezieres with two other planes of the 24th Aero Squadron. Their formation was broken by the attack of ten enemy pursuit planes; five enemy planes attacked Lieutenant Dillon and his observer, who succeeded in shooting down two of these out of control. They then had a clear passage to their own lines, but turned back into Germany to assist a friendly plane with several hostile aircraft attacking it. They succeeded in shooting down one more of the enemy.
General Orders 7, W.D., 1919
Birth: Chicago, IL
Home Town: Chicago, IL

D'OLIVE, CHARLES RUDOLPH
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 93d Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Charles Rudolph D'Olive, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near St. Benoit, France, September 12, 1918, First Lieutenant D'Olive, in conjunction with another American pilot, engaged and fought five enemy planes. Outnumbered and fighting against tremendous odds, he shot down three enemy planes and outfought the entire enemy formation.
General Orders No. No. 123, W.D., 1918
Birth: 7/10/1896 - Suggsville, AL
Home Town: Memphis, TN

DONALDSON, JOHN OWEN
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 32d Squadron, Royal Air Force (Attached), Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: July 22 &25 and August 8 - 10, 25 & 29 , 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John Owen Donaldson, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Mont-Norte-Dame, France, July 22, 1918, when, on patrol, he attacked a formation of 20 Fokker enemy biplanes. Singling out one of the hostile machines Lieutenant Donaldson engaged it from behind, firing a short burst at close range, the plane bursting into flames and crashing to the ground. On August 8, 1918, he engaged 5 enemy scout planes over Licourt, France; singling out one and diving on it, he opened fire at close range, causing it to crash to the ground. On August 9, 1918, over Licourt, France, observing a British plane being attacked by three enemy scout planes, he immediately engaged one of the enemy, firing a long burst at very close range, the enemy plane bursting into flames and crashing to the ground. On August 25, 1918, over Hancourt, France, he attacked four Fokker enemy planes, diving into their midst and firing a short burst at one of them from a short range, destroying the plane, the pilot of which descended to safety in a parachute. On July 25, 1918, over Fismes, France, he drove down out of control an enemy Fokker plane; on August 10, over Perrone, France, one Fokker biplane; and on August 29 over Cambria, France, one Fokker biplane. In all these engagements Lieutenant Donaldson displayed the greatest devotion to duty and gallantry in the face of the enemy.
General Orders No. No. 13, W.D., 1924
Birth: 5/14/1897 - Fort Yates, ND
Home Town: Washington, DC

DOUGLASS, KINGMAN
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 91st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 31, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Kingman Douglass, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Longuyon, October 31, 1918, While on a photographic mission Captain Douglass encountered a superior number of enemy pursuit planes. Notwithstanding the odds against him, he turned and dived on the hostile formation, destroying one plane and damaging another. He then continued on his mission and returned photographs of great military value.
General Orders No. 1, W.D., 1919
Birth: Oak Park, IL
Home Town: Oak Park, IL

*DOWD, MEREDITH L.
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 147th Aero Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 26, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Meredith L. Dowd, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Dannevoux, France, October 26, 1918. Having been unable to overtake and join a patrol, Lieutenant Dowd alone encountered four German planes, which he daringly attacked. He fought with most wonderful skill and bravery, diving into the formation and sending one of the enemy to earth. In the course of the combat his machine was disabled and crashed to the earth, killing him in the fall.
General Orders No. 37, W.D., 1919
Birth: Orange, NJ
Home Town: Orange, NJ

*DREW, CHARLES W.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 13th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: August 15, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Charles W. Drew, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Flirey, France, August 15, 1918. Lieutenant Drew operated one of a patrol of four machines which attacked four enemy battle planes. In the fight which followed he attacked in succession three of the enemy airships, driving one of them out of the battle. He then engaged another machine at close range and received ten bullets in his own plane, one of which penetrated his radiator, while another pierced his helmet. In spite of this he followed the German plane to a low altitude within the enemy's lines and shot it down in flames. During the latter part of the combat he courageously refused to abandon the fight, although he had become separated from his companions and his engine had become so hot because of the leak in his radiator that there was imminent danger of its failing him at any moment. He has since been killed in action.
General Orders No. No. 15, W.D., 1926
Birth: Rochester, NY
Home Town: Philadelphia, PA

DUCKSTEIN, ARTHUR WILLIAM
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 29, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Arthur William Duckstein, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action between Montrebeau and Exermont, France, September 29, 1918. While on a special command reconnaissance to ascertain whether or not there was any concentration of enemy troops between Montrebeau and Exermont which might indicate a possible counterattack, this officer obtained information of the very greatest value. Flying over the enemy's lines at an altitude of less than 200 meters, in spite of most unfavorable atmospheric conditions, in the presence of numerous enemy aircraft, and under continuous heavy rifle and machine-gun fire from the ground, he spotted enemy troops massed for counterattack and, although severely wounded by a machine-gun bullet from the ground, continued his mission until he had clearly and accurately located the position. He then returned and, though suffering from the pain of his wound, succeeded in writing out and dropping a clear and complete message. The counterattack, launched shortly afterwards by a fresh enemy division, was crushed, and the accurate and timely information brought back by Lieutenant Duckstein, after a very gallant flight under highly adverse conditions, was of the greatest importance in this success.
General Orders No. No. 128, W.D., 1918
Birth: Philadelphia, PA
Home Town: New York, NY

EASTERBROOK, ARTHUR EDMUND
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Arthur Edmund Easterbrook, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near St. Mihiel, France, September 12, 1918. Because of intense aerial activity on the opening day of the St. Mihiel offensive, Lieutenant Easterbrook, observer, and Second Lieutenant Ralph E. De Castro, pilot, volunteered to fly over the enemy's lines on a photographic mission without the usual protection of accompanying planes. Notwithstanding the low-hanging clouds, which necessitated operation at an altitude of only 400 meters, they penetrated 4 kilometers beyond the German lines. Attacked by four enemy machines, they fought off their foes, completed their photographic mission, and returned safely.
General Orders No. 116, W.D., 1919
Birth: 11/4/1893 - Amsterdam, NY
Home Town: Fort Flagler, WA
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

EASTERBROOK, ARTHUR EDMUND
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 8, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Arthur Edmund Easterbrook, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Exermont and Varennes, France, October 8, 1918. Lieutenant Easterbrook, with Lieutenant Erwin, pilot, successfully carried out a mission of locating our Infantry, despite five encounters with enemy planes. During these encounters he broke up a formation of three planes, sending one down out of control; killed or wounded an observer in an encounter with another formation; and sent a biplane crashing to the ground, besides driving away a formation of two planes and several single machines.
General Orders No. 116, W.D., 1919
Birth: 11/4/1893 - Amsterdam, NY
Home Town: Fort Flagler, WA
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

EATON, WARREN EDWIN
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 103d Aero Squadron, 3d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 10, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Warren Edwin Eaton, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Bantheville, France, October 10, 1918. With one other pilot, Lieutenant Eaton engaged an enemy formation of 11 planes (Fokker type), though another hostile formation was directly above them. After a severe combat Lieutenant Eaton destroyed one of the enemy planes and, with his companion, drove down another out of control.
General Orders No. 46, W.D., 1919
Birth: Norwich, NY
Home Town: Norwich, NY

ELLIOTT, ROBERT P.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 96th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 27, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Robert P. Elliott, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Olizy, France, October 27, 1918. Lieutenant Elliott flew in a formation over the enemy's lines on a bombing expedition. Attacked by a greatly superior number of enemy pursuit planes, his aileron controls soon shot away, Lieutenant Elliott continued to pilot his machine and give protection to his comrades. When his observer was seriously wounded, Lieutenant Elliott left the formation at great risk to himself, and with a disabled machine made a safe landing.
General Orders 7, W.D., 1919
Birth: Los Angeles, CA
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA

ERWIN, WILLIAM P.
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: June, July & September 12 - 15, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William P. Erwin, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the Chateau-Thierry and St. Mihiel Salients, France. Lieutenant Erwin, with Second Lieutenant Byrne E. Baucom, observer, by a long period of faithful and heroic operations, set an inspiring example of courage and devotion to duty to his entire squadron. Throughout the Chateau- Thierry actions, in June and July, 1918, he flew under the worst weather conditions and successfully carried out his missions in the face of heavy odds. In the St. Mihiel sector, September 12 - 15, 1918, he repeated his previous courageous work. He flew as low as 50 feet from the ground behind the enemy's lines, harassing German troops with machine-gun fire and subjecting himself to attack from ground batteries, machine- guns, and rifles. He twice drove off enemy planes which were attempting to destroy an American observation balloon. On September 12 and 13, 1918, he flew at extremely low altitudes and carried out infantry contact patrols successfully. Again on September 12 he attacked a German battery, forced the crew to abandon it, shot off of his horse a German officer who was trying to escape, drove the cannoneers to their dugouts, and kept them there until the infantry could come up and capture them.
General Orders 70, W.D., 1919
Birth: 10/18/1895 - Ryan, OK
Home Town: Chicago, IL
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

ERWIN, WILLIAM P.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 1st Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: November 5, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William P. Erwin, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Sedan, France, November 5, 1918. Against the advice of experienced officers Lieutenant Erwin undertook a reconnaissance flight in the face of atmospheric conditions that rendered flying most dangerous. In order that his observer might gain the necessary information, he was forced to fly at a perilously low altitude, and was subject to continuous anti-aircraft and rifle fire. When information gained on the flight had been dropped at division headquarters, he circled and returned over the enemy lines, although on the first reconnaissance mission his plane had been repeatedly hit by bullets. Penetrating far into enemy territory, he maneuvered most skillfully, and with shells bursting near him, flew low while his observer poured deadly fire upon machine-gun nests that had been holding up the advance of our troops. When his machine was crippled by enemy fire, he displayed exceptional skill in effecting a landing upon rocky land within the enemy lines. With his observer, he beat off repeated enemy attacks and fought his way back to the American lines, with information of vital importance to our troops.
General Orders 70, W.D., 1919
Birth: 10/18/1895 - Ryan, OK
Home Town: Chicago, IL
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

ESTE, J. DICKINSON
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 13th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to J. Dickinson Este, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Chambley, France, September 13, 1918. First Lieutenant Este was leading an offensive patrol of five machines when a formation of seven enemy single-seaters approached the patrol from above. Although outnumbered and in a very disadvantageous position, he did not hesitate to lead his patrol to the attack. Through the combat which followed he fought with the greatest bravery, in spite of the fact that he was himself attacked by two enemy planes, which fired at his at point-blank range from the rear and above. By his skill and courage he was able to keep his formation together, and they succeeded in shooting down three of the enemy planes, of which h himself destroyed one and drove down another out of control.
General Orders No. No. 123, W.D., 1918
Birth: Philadelphia, PA
Home Town: Haverford, PA

*FARNSWORTH, THOMAS H.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 96th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 13, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Thomas H. Farnsworth, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Thiaucourt, France, September 13, 1918. After being badly wounded Lieutenant Farnsworth shot down an enemy plane and made a perfect landing. His first thoughts upon landing were for his observer, who had been thrown from his plane during the action. Lieutenant Farnsworth died shortly after being taken to the aid station.
General Orders No. 126, W.D., 1919
Birth: Washington, DC
Home Town: Washington, DC

FERRENBACH, LEO C.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 14th Balloon Company, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: July 22, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Leo C. Ferrenbach, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Ansauville, France, July 22, 1918. Lieutenant Ferrenbach, a balloon observer, was conducting an important surveillance of his sector when at an altitude of 800 meters successive attacks were made upon the balloon by enemy planes. This officer refused to leave his post and continued his work with strong enemy patrols hovering above him until one of the hostile machines dived and set fire to the balloon. After he had jumped in his parachute, the burning balloon fell and barely missed him. Lieutenant Ferrenbach immediately re-ascended while enemy patrols were still in the vicinity.
General Orders 7, W.D., 1919
Birth: St. Louis, MO
Home Town: St. Louis, MO

FISHER, GEORGE F.
Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 16, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to George F. Fisher, Captain (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the vicinity of Xonville, France, September 16, 1918. While flying alone Captain Fisher encountered two enemy biplanes which were attempting to cross our lines. He attacked them and shot down one of them. He then pursued the other, forcing it to go down out of control about 10 kilometers within enemy lines.
General Orders No. No. 35, W.D., 1920
Birth: Harrisburg, PA
Home Town: Chicago, IL

FLEESON, HOWARD T.
(First Award)
Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 12th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 12, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Howard T. Fleeson, Second Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the St. Mihiel salient, France, September 12, 1918. Second Lieutenant Fleeson and Second Lieutenant Dogan H. Arthur, pilot, executed a difficult mission of infantry contact patrol, without protection of accompanying battle planes, on the first day of the St. Mihiel offensive. After being driven back twice by a patrol of 9 enemy planes, they courageously made a third attempt in the face of a third attack by the same planes, found the American lines, and after being shot down, but falling uninjured in friendly territory, communicated their valuable information to headquarters.
General Orders No. 27, W.D., 1919
Birth: Sterling, KS
Home Town: Sterling, KS
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

FLEESON, HOWARD T.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 12th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 30, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Howard T. Fleeson, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Buzancy, France, October 30, 1918. Lieutenant Fleeson accompanied a formation of nine planes on a photographic mission in German territory; six planes turned back before reaching the enemy line, and the remaining three were attacked by 18 Fokker type planes when they had penetrated 12 kilometers into the enemy country. After his two companions, whom he tried to assist, were shot down, Lieutenant Fleeson fought his way back to his own lines, destroying two enemy planes in the combat.
General Orders No. 27, W.D., 1919
Birth: Sterling, KS
Home Town: Sterling, KS
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)

FOLLETTE, JUSTIN P.
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Observer, 12th Aero Squadron, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 15, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Justin P. Follette, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Chatel-Chehery, France, October 15, 1918. First Lieutenant Follette volunteered under the most adverse weather conditions to stake the advance of the 82d Division. Disregarding the fact that darkness would set in before he and his pilot could complete their mission, he made observation at the extremely low altitude of 150 feet, amid a most terrific anti aircraft and ground machine-gun fire until the necessary information was secured. On the return, due to dark ness, his pilot was forced to land on a shell-torn field, whence he proceeded on foot to headquarters with valuable information.
General Orders No. No. 143, W.D., 1918
Birth: Libertyville, IL
Home Town: Jamul, CA

FONTAINE, HUGH L.
(First Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: September 14, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Hugh L. Fontaine, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the region of Hageville, France, September 14, 1918. With First Lieutenant Hugh Brewster, First Lieutenant Fontaine attacked nine enemy monoplanes (Fokkers) at an altitude of 4,000 meters. He dived into the midst of the enemy formation without consideration for his personal safety, subjecting himself to great danger. By the suddenness and extreme vehemence of his attack, the machines were driven into confusion. Although greatly outnumbered he and Lieutenant Brewster succeeded in shooting down two of the enemy.
General Orders No. 13, W.D., 1919
Birth: New Orleans, LA
Home Town: Memphis, TN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross w/OLC (WWI)

FONTAINE, HUGH L.
(Second Award)
First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army
Pilot, 49th Aero Squadron, 2d Pursuit Group, Air Service, A.E.F.
Date of Action: October 10, 1918
Citation:
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Hugh L. Fontaine, First Lieutenant (Air Service), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Champigneulles, France, October 10, 1918. While leading a patrol of three other machines Lieutenant Fontaine attacked four enemy planes in the region of Champigneulles. He succeeded in shooting down two of the enemy planes in flames. The first of these he shot down in the initial attack. The second he attacked while it was endeavoring to shoot down one of our planes which had been rendered helpless by the loss of one of its wings. He dived on the attacking plane and shot it down in flames.
General Orders No. 13, W.D., 1919
Birth: New Orleans, LA
Home Town: Memphis, TN
Other Award: Distinguished Service Cross (WWI)