Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal John C. Blankenship (ASN: 244442), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 5th Field Signal Battalion, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Fossoy, France, 15 July 1918. During the intense artillery bombardment, preparatory to the great German offensive of 15 July Corporal Blankenship voluntarily led a medical officer to the aid of wounded men, following broken wire through woods. He guided the party on their return over the same route, although suffering from a severe wound.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Batallion:

    5th Field Signal Battalion

    Division:

    3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    July 15, 1918
    Headquarters, 3d Division, A.E.F., Citation Orders No. 22 (July 8, 1919)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Corporal John C. Blankenship (ASN: 244442), United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the World War I Victory Medals awarded him. While serving with Company C, 5th Field Signal Battalion, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, Corporal Blankenship displayed exceptional courage near Fossoy, France, 15 July 1918. During an intense artillery bombardment, he voluntarily led Captain Stiff, Medical Corps, to wounded men whose location he alone knew. On the return trip Corporal Blankenship was wounded but in spite of great pain refused aid an led the party to a place of safety. [A Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for this action.]