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 Fred McKinley Lawson (ASN: 542413), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, at Fossoy, France, July 14 – 17, 1918. When it was reported that the enemy had crossed the Marne River, Corporal Lawson twice led a patrol across his platoon front through heavy shell fire and at the risk of his life. On 15 16 July & 17 he worked day and night unceasingly until forced to stop from complete exhaustion, displaying at all times the highest coolness and judgment, and rendering services of the greatest value.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant [then Corporal]

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    October 10, 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), Sergeant [then Corporal] Fred McK. Lawson (ASN: 542413), 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 I, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, on 10 October 1918, on Hill 253, Sergeant Lawson displayed exceptional bravery by being the first man to reach the German trenches and by jumping in alone and killing three of the enemy before his comrades came to his assistance.