David W. Lillard

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to David W. Lillard, Captain, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Poncheaux, France, October 7, 1918. Severely wounded in the side, when an enemy machine-gun bullet struck and exploded two clips of shells in his magazine pouch, Captain Lillard struggled to his feet and directed the further advance of his company. For six hours he remained in command of his company, issuing orders from a shell hole, under the most intense fire. During part of this period he was practically unconscious and was suffering severe pain; but he, nevertheless, successfully accomplished the organization of his company’s position.