Joseph F. Collinson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Joseph F. Collinson, Private, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 8 November 1944, in France. On that date, during an attack on Nomeny, France, Private Collinson was severely wounded by enemy artillery fire. He courageously continued on, and while approaching the town he was again wounded and his rifle was blown out of his hands. Undeterred, the intrepid soldier seized an automatic rifle lying nearby and went forward into the town. He remained there with his squad, despite his serious wounds, refusing evacuation until it was forced upon him the following day. Private Collinson’s conspicuous heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 80th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.