Walter Montieth Whitman

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Walter Montieth Whitman, Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Fleville and St. Juvin, France, October 11 – 12, 1918. When his regiment was attacked in column before reaching the line which it was to hold Colonel Whitman took command and personally led his men into action. Always on the firing line, he led four attacks under heavy fire from artillery, machine-guns, and snipers on the hill east of St. Juvin, the fourth of which was successful. He maintained his post of command on or near the front line throughout the engagement and by his personal example of courage inspired his men to valiant and successful combat.