Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918 (Bul. No. 43, W.D., 1918), Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Bernice B. Stamps, United States Navy, is cited by the Commanding General, SECOND DIVISION A.E.F., for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him. Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Stamps distinguished himself by gallantry in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the Sixth Machine-Gun Battalion, Sixth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces. Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Stamps displayed great courage, fearlessness, and devotion to duty, near Jaulney, France, 13 – 15 September 1918, in caring for the wounded with practically no rest or food. During a particularly heavy shelling and when a counterattack was expected, the medical department was ordered to the rear. Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Stamps volunteered to remain and take care of the wounded until they could be evacuated. This he did, exposing himself to great danger.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Pharmacist’s Mate

    Batallion:

    6th Machine-Gun Battalion

    Regiment:

    6th Regiment (Marines)

    Division:

    2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces

    Action Date:

    September 13 – 15, 1918
    War Department, General Orders No. 46 (1919)

    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 Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Bernice Buford Stamps, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the Sixth Machine-Gun Battalion, Sixth Regiment (Marines), 2d Division, American Expeditionary Forces, near Jaulny, France, September 13 – 15, 1918. Working continually without rest or food, Pharmacist’s Mate Stamps cared for the wounded under most hazardous conditions. When a counterattack by the enemy seemed imminent the medical detachment was ordered to the rear, but he willingly stayed with the wounded and assisted greatly in their evacuation.