Navy Federal Credit Union

Walter Cushing and his brother James M. Cushing were born in Mexico before moving to California. Each received the Distinguished Service Cross for heroism in the Philippine Islands during World War II. Walter Cushing was captured by the Japanese and was subsequently executed in captivity. They were one of only three sets of brothers to each earn the Distinguished Service Cross during World War II.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    121st Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    Philippine Scouts

    Action Date:

    September 20, 1942

    War Department, General Orders No. 106 (September 20, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Walter McKay Cushing (ASN: 0-890361), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving an Infantry Company of the 121st Infantry Regiment, Philippine Army, in action against enemy forces on 20 September 1942, while working among the Philippine Guerrilla Forces at Ilocos, Luzon, Philippine Islands. While leading a patrol to a hidden radio station in the mountains, Captain Cushing was attacked by a strong enemy unit. Realizing that his force could not otherwise escape, he voluntarily held the trail alone against the Japanese until the rest of the patrol could withdraw. Captain Cushing’s inspiring leadership and indomitable courage, reflected in his supreme sacrifice, were in accord with the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.