John P. Hanford

By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John P. Hanford, United States Army, is cited (Posthumously) by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Second Lieutenant Hanford distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 166th Infantry Regiment, 42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action on 29 July 1918, at Seringes-et-Nesles, France, and by his brilliant leadership.

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John P. Hanford, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action in the vicinity of Seringes-et-Nesles, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, July 29, 1918. Lieutenant Hanford displayed great coolness and bravery in leading his platoon under severe enemy machine-gun fire until he was severely wounded. Although the seriousness of his wound was apparent, he nevertheless continued to encourage his men and, before permitting himself to be evacuated, turned the command over to his platoon sergeant, giving him all possible advice in the handling of the situation. Lieutenant Hanford showed an utter disregard for his own personal safety, which was an inspiration to the entire command. The wound received resulted in his making the supreme sacrifice on August 1, 1818.