John C. Ward

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John C. Ward, First Lieutenant (Chaplain), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action east of Ronssoy, France, September 29, 1918. During the operations against the Hindenburg line Chaplain Ward voluntarily and at great risk to himself went forward under heavy shell and machine-gun fire to care for the wounded and to search for the dead. Twice he was ordered off the field of battle by officers, being told each time that it was sure death to remain. During the entire time his regiment was engaged he remained on the field under fire, displaying a fine example of bravery and courage which was an inspiration to all.