Cornelius P. Collins

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Cornelius P. Collins, Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Meurcy Farm, north of Chateau-Thierry, France, July 29, 1918. When the advance of his platoon was held up by enemy fire from a machine-gun nest on Hill 212, Private Collins with several others charged the nest, but were repulsed with heavy losses, all but three of the party being killed or wounded. He and two comrades immediately volunteered and made the second assault, which was successful. His courageous and gallant actions were an inspiration to his company. He was severely wounded on July 30.