Edwin E. Schwien

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Edwin E. Schwien, Captain, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on Hill 241, between Cierges and Romagne, France, October 4, 1918. On the morning of October 4, 1918, captain Schwien led the first wave of his company in an attack on Hill 241, north of Cierges. Early in the attack the entire company advanced in the face of terrific shell and machine gun fire. Owing to the severity of the fire the attack was held up on the south side of the hill. Captain Schwien then personally led a small reconnaissance party over the enemy slope, during the performance of which he was severely wounded, but when carried back t our front lines and while lying prostrate on the ground, being unable to walk, he continued to command his company and so directed the disposition of his command that another counterattack was prevented. Having organized his position he was carried to the first-aid station. His brilliant leadership under fire and his dedication to duty after having been seriously wounded were an inspiration to those who served under him.