Francis R. Stevens

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Francis R. Stevens (0-15779), Lieutenant Colonel (General Staff Corps), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces on 9 June 1942, over New Guinea. While on a flight over Lae, New Guinea, Lieutenant Colonel Stevens was shot down. His intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.