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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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles Hutchings, Jr., United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, south of Beaumont, France, 2 and 3 November 1918. On the night of march of his regiment through the enemy lines Lieutenant Hutchings commanded the advance party. About midnight his group was halted by heavy machine-gun and Stokes-mortar fire. Lieutenant Hutchings deployed his command and went forward alone to make a reconnaissance. Although exposed to fire from both lines, he completed his reconnaissance and captured nine of the enemy, whom he returned to our lines, together with valuable information.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    9th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    November 3, 1918
    GHQ, American Expeditionary Forces, Citation Orders No. 3 (June 3, 1919)

    By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles Hutchings, Jr., United States Army, is cited 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. First Lieutenant (Infantry) Hutchings distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving with the 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in action near La Fontaine au Croneq Ferme, France, 3 November 1918, and for brilliant leadership. [This award was rescinded under GHQ, American Expeditionary Forces, Citation Orders No. 9 (August 1, 1920) as the recipient has been awarded a Distinguished Service Cross for deed including this act.]