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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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Henry K. Cassidy, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 165th Infantry Regiment, 42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near the Ourcq River, France, 28 July 1918. After his battalion commander had been killed and he himself so severely wounded that he was unable to walk without assistance, Captain Cassidy, Battalion Adjutant, remained on duty for three days, despite the fact that he had been ordered to the rear, and assisted the new battalion commander in re-forming the battalion. He remarkable fortitude and courage furnished and inspiration to the members of the battalion and aided materially in the attack.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    165th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    May 4 – 5, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 2 (1932)

    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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Henry Kenneth Cassidy, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company D, 165th Infantry Regiment, 42d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Ancerviller, France, may 4 – 5, 1918. With great skill and daring Lieutenant Cassidy led a patrol at night into the enemy’s lines. The patrol surprised and captured an entire outpost, killing two and bringing in four prisoners. His undaunted courage and leadership proved an inspiration to his men and aided materially in the successful accomplishment of his mission.