William R. Witherell

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to William R. Witherell, First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Cote-de-Chatillon, France, October 15 – 16, 1918. While in command of an assaulting company, which was without other officers, he displayed unhesitating devotion to duty and courage during the offensive operations at Cote’ de Chatillon. Brilliantly leading his company in an attack over open ground swept by violent machine-gun fire, he captured 63 prisoners and four officers and directed the organization of the captured positions in disregard of all danger. On the next day, after severe hand-to- hand fighting, he drove off and completely broke up a pending counterattack, furnishing a splendid example of calmness, decision, and courage at a very critical time.